This article explores the therapeutic potential of Schisandrin B (Sch B), a compound found in the Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) herb Magnolia Berry. We delve into the promising anti-cancer and neuroprotective effects.
A new study demonstrated that Sch B effectively reduces cell growth, induces apoptosis (cell death) in colon cancer cells, and decreases tumour growth in mice, suggesting a promising therapeutic option for colon cancer treatment.
Introduction
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) is an ancient practice of health and wellness that has been practised in China and other parts of Asia for thousands of years. It is extremely popular and deeply integrated into the healthcare systems across Asia, not only as a complementary alternative to modern medicine but also, for some, as a primary mode of treatment, reflecting its cultural significance and trusted status among populations in the region. TCM practitioners commonly utilise the Magnolia Berry, or five-flavour fruit (wu wei zi), to enhance vitality and support the immune system. Schisandrins A, B, and C, three main active compounds, contribute to the beneficial properties of the Magnolia Berry.
The Power of Schisandrin B
Schisandra chinensis, whose fruit is the Magnolia Berry, was first recorded in Shen Nong’s Classic Materia Medica, written between 100 BCE and 200 CE. For thousands of years, practitioners have used it to address kidney yin deficiency. According to TCM, kidney yin deficiency is regarded as the source of age-related memory loss. Hence, the magnolia berry was used to treat brain disorders and improve cognition in ancient China.
Schisandrin B and Alzheimer’s disease
Recent research revealed Sch B as the main compound from Magnolia Berry which plays a role in neuroprotection. Sch B effectively blocks pro-inflammatory molecules to protect the rat cerebrum against inflammation and ischemia. It also mitigates oxidative stress via Nrf2 signalling pathways, crucial in combating Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s diseases, as well as ischemia. In mice studies, Sch B has been shown to decrease amyloid-β deposition in the hippocampus, targeting the core substance responsible for Alzheimer’s disease, suggesting its potential as a significant therapeutic agent in neurodegenerative disease management.
Moreover, ongoing pharmacological research on Sch B has uncovered its broader biological properties that target multiple signalling pathways. These pathways reduce the production of free radicals, protect mitochondrial integrity, induce cell cycle arrest, inhibit the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines, and more, giving Sch B its antioxidant, anti-inflammation, cardioprotection, and neuroprotection properties.
Schisandrin B and Cancer
Sch B has also attracted attention for its anti-cancer potential. Several studies have reported that Sch B can induce cell death and inhibit cell growth in various types of cancer, such as colon, prostate, breast, ovarian, lung, and gastric cancer. Sch B also has low toxicity making it a promising candidate for natural cancer therapy.
A new study published last month in ACS Pharmacology & Translational Science reveals the molecular mechanism and therapeutic efficacy of Sch B in colon cancer, one of the most common and deadly cancers worldwide. The researchers found that Sch B suppressed colon cancer growth in vitro and in vivo by inducing cell cycle arrest and apoptosis, a form of programmed cell death. Sch B activated a cellular stress response called the unfolded protein response (UPR) by binding to and activating a protein called CHOP, a key regulator of cell fate under stress conditions. CHOP then triggered a cascade of processes that activated cell death genes and proteins. This effectively reduces cell proliferation and induces cell death in colon cancer cells. Further, in mice, they confirmed Sch B’s potential to reduce tumour growth, suggesting a promising alternative treatment for colon cancer.
The Downside of Schisandrin B
However, Sch B has its possible drawbacks. A study in mice revealed that Sch B acts like a double-edged sword. A long-term low dose of Sch B reduced lipid levels in mice models with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). Yet, a single high dose of Sch B increased the serum lipid levels. This study suggests that while Sch B may potentially treat NAFLD, the optimal dose and duration need to be established. Further, Sch B may induce oxidative stress via the cytochrome P450 system, which can be impacted by other drugs that also affect the pathway.
Therefore, its various biological properties affecting multiple pathways has resulted in Sch B being regarded as a potential cure for several diseases. These same properties nonetheless are the reason more careful investigations on the mechanism of its action and additional preclinical trials are still necessary to further validate the potential as a drug candidate.
Healthcare Professional’s Approach to Sch B
While the benefits of Sch B and Magnolia Berry are promising, healthcare professionals should always advise their patients to consult with them before starting any new supplement regimen. This is particularly important for patients who are pregnant, breastfeeding, or have underlying health conditions. Here are some things to consider when advising patients about taking Sch B or any TCM medication:
Assess the patient’s current condition
Be aware of possible adverse effects. For example, supplementing with Sch B to treat NAFLD may cause adverse effects in patients with other liver diseases such as viral hepatitis, alcoholic liver disease, or autoimmune liver disease.
Explore the potential benefits and risks
Consider the implications of combining TCM and western medication or stopping any current medication. TCM medications normally consist of multiple herbs targeting several body processes and biological pathways. Therefore, it is typically advised that TCM and western medication are taken at least two hours apart to reduce the risk of any interactions.
Check approval status and country regulations
Depending on the country’s safety regulations, Sch B may not be an approved supplement. It is important to note that the approval process for supplements can vary greatly from country to country. Factors such as clinical evidence of efficacy, safety data, and manufacturing quality all play a role in whether a supplement gets approved. For example, in Singapore, Sch B is not listed as an approved supplement even though Magnolia Berry is a common TCM ingredient there. Therefore, healthcare professionals should stay updated on the latest regulatory changes and ensure that their advice aligns with the current regulations and guidelines.
Check the sources and quality of the supplement
If the patient decides to supplement with Sch B or any TCM product, ensure that they choose reputable and reliable products and to inform their healthcare professionals of all the supplements taken.
Conclusion
Sch B and Magnolia Berry can suppress colon cancer growth, modulate immune responses, and protect against oxidative stress. The potential anti-cancer and anti-inflammatory effects of Sch B and Magnolia Berry are exciting but they also pose some drawbacks and uncertainties that need further investigation. Therefore, healthcare professionals should use discretion and caution in advising patients on the use of Sch B supplements. As we continue to explore the power of natural compounds in medicine, it is clear that sometimes, the best remedies can be found in nature itself. This potential also emphasises the need for continued research to fully understand their benefits, optimal dosages, and mechanisms. Nevertheless, the future of natural medicine, fueled by ongoing studies and growing awareness, continues to look promising.
References
- Co, V. A., El-Nezami, H., Liu, Y., Twum, B., Dey, P., Cox, P. A., Joseph, S., Agbodjan-Dossou, R., Sabzichi, M., Draheim, R., & Lam Yim Wan, M. (2024). Schisandrin B suppresses colon cancer growth by inducing cell cycle arrest and apoptosis: Molecular mechanism and therapeutic potential. ACS Pharmacology & Translational Science, 7(3), 863-877. https://doi.org/10.1021/acsptsci.4c00009
- Wei, B., Liu, M., Chen, Z., et al. (2018). Schisandrin ameliorates cognitive impairment and attenuates Aβ deposition in APP/PS1 transgenic mice: involvement of adjusting neurotransmitters and their metabolite changes in the brain. Acta Pharmacologica Sinica, 39, 616–625. https://doi.org/10.1038/aps.2017.135
- Leong, P. K., & Ko, K. M. (2016). Schisandrin B: A double-edged sword in nonalcoholic fatty liver disease. Oxidative Medicine and Cellular Longevity, 2016, 6171658. https://doi.org/10.1155/2016/6171658
- Wang, X., Wang, X., Yao, H., et al. (2024). A comprehensive review on Schisandrin and its pharmacological features. Naunyn-Schmiedeberg’s Archives of Pharmacology, 397, 783–794. https://doi.org/10.1007/s00210-023-02687-z
- Nasser, M. I., Zhu, S., Chen, C., Zhao, M., Huang, H., & Zhu, P. (2020). A comprehensive review on Schisandrin B and its biological properties. Oxidative Medicine and Cellular Longevity, 2020, 2172740. https://doi.org/10.1155/2020/2172740
