Product Overview
Ursolic acid is a natural pentacyclic triterpenoid carboxylic acid compound with a wide range of biological activities. It is primarily found in fruits such as apples, rosemary, and other medicinal plants . The chemical formula is C₃₀H₄₈O₃, and its molecular weight is 456.70 g/mol . Ursolic acid is available in white or off-white powder form and is commonly used in research and pharmaceutical applications .
Physical and Chemical Properties
- Appearance: White or off-white powder
- Purity: ≥95% (HPLC)
- Storage Conditions: Store at room temperature, away from light and moisture, in a sealed, dry container. Avoid repackaging to prevent degradation .
- Solubility: Soluble in DMSO, but not in water. It is also soluble in alcohol and acetic acid .
Biological Activities
Ursolic acid exhibits a variety of biological effects, including:
- Anti-cancer Activity: Ursolic acid induces apoptosis in cancer cells by activating the p53 pathway and downregulating Bcl-2 expression . It also inhibits the growth of prostate cancer cells by suppressing the ROCK/PTEN signaling pathway and increasing caspase-3 and caspase-9 activities .
- Anti-inflammatory Effects: Ursolic acid suppresses the activation of NF-κB, AP-1, and NF-AT, which are key regulators of inflammatory responses .
- Liver Protection: Ursolic acid has been shown to reduce oxidative stress and inflammation in liver tissue, making it a potential therapeutic agent for liver diseases .
- Diabetes and Metabolic Effects: It improves blood glucose levels, glucose tolerance, and insulin sensitivity in diabetic models .
- Neuroprotective and Cognitive Benefits: Ursolic acid may protect against Alzheimer’s disease by inhibiting the interaction between amyloid-β and CD36 receptors .
- Muscle and Sarcopenia Prevention: Ursolic acid has been shown to improve muscle mass and reduce sarcopenia in aging mice .
Applications
- Research Reagents: Widely used in molecular biology and pharmacology for studying its various biological effects .
- Pharmaceutical Development: Ursolic acid is being investigated for its potential in treating chronic liver diseases, cancer, and inflammatory conditions .
- Cosmetics and Nutraceuticals: Due to its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, it is also used in cosmetic formulations to promote skin health .
Safety and Handling
- Toxicity: Ursolic acid is not classified as a hazardous substance under GHS, but it should be handled with care to avoid inhalation of dust or vapors .
- Precautions:
- Avoid direct contact with skin and eyes. Wash with soap and water if contact occurs.
- In case of inhalation, move to fresh air and administer artificial respiration if necessary.
- Store in a well-ventilated area and keep the container tightly closed.
- Prepare stock solutions just before use and store at -80°C for up to 3-6 months to avoid repeated freeze-thaw cycles .
Product Specifications
- Product Code: SU8060
- CAS Number: 77-52-1
- Purity: ≥95% (HPLC)
- Packaging Options: 1g, 5g, and 25g
Conclusion
Ursolic acid is a versatile compound with a broad range of biological activities, making it a valuable tool in both research and potential therapeutic applications. Its natural origin and diverse pharmacological effects position it as a promising candidate for further development in the treatment of various diseases
