Cycloastragenol (CAG) is a triterpenoid saponin compound and a hydrolysis product of the main active ingredient in Astragalus membranaceus (Fisch.) Bunge. An increasing body of evidence has indicated that CAG has a wide spectrum of pharmacological functions, which are attracting attention in the research community. The aim of the present review paper was to review and elucidate the advanced study of CAG. The focus was on advanced studies of CAG in English and Chinese databases; the literature was collected and reviewed to summarize the latest efficacy, pharmacokinetics and adverse reactions of CAG. Extensive pharmacological effects have been attributed to CAG, including telomerase activation, telomere elongation, anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidative properties; CAG has also been reported to improve lipid metabolism. Clinical research has demonstrated that CAG activates telomerase in humans and ameliorates various biomarkers. CAG is absorbed through the intestinal epithelium via passive diffusion and undergoes first-pass hepatic metabolism. Within a certain dose range, oral CAG is relatively safe; however, underlying mechanisms associated with CAG are not clear, and thus, we should be aware of potential adverse reactions associated with CAG. According to existing studies and clinical trials, CAG is safe and has broad application prospects. However, further studies are required to fully understand its efficacy and potential adverse reactions, and to ensure the proper use of CAG is applied to treat diseases clinically.
Keywords: Astragalus membranaceus (Fisch.) Bunge; cycloastragenol; telomerase activator.