Dauricine

Dauricine is a bisbenzylisoquinoline alkaloid derived from Menispermum dauricum that primarily blocks calcium and sodium ion channels. This compound demonstrates potential anticancer and antiarrhythmic properties through its selective ion channel modulation.

Origin & History

Dauricine is an isoquinoline alkaloid isolated from the Asian vine species Menispermum dauricum and the North American vine Menispermum canadense. It is classified chemically as a phenol and aromatic ether with the molecular formula C₃₈H₄₄N₂O₆.

Historical & Cultural Context

The search results do not contain information about dauricine's use in traditional medicine systems. Further research into historical texts and ethnobotanical studies would be required.

Health Benefits

• Potential inhibition of cancer cell growth (in vitro evidence)
• Cardiac ion channel blocking effects (in vitro evidence)
• Calcium channel modulation (in vitro evidence)
• Potential antiarrhythmic properties (in vitro evidence)
• Antioxidant activity (in vitro evidence)

How It Works

Dauricine selectively blocks L-type calcium channels and voltage-gated sodium channels in cardiac and smooth muscle tissues. The compound inhibits calcium influx by binding to the α1 subunit of calcium channels, reducing intracellular calcium concentrations. Additionally, dauricine modulates potassium channels and exhibits antioxidant activity through free radical scavenging mechanisms.

Scientific Research

The research dossier does not include any specific human clinical trials or meta-analyses for dauricine. Further comprehensive literature searches would be necessary to identify any such studies.

Clinical Summary

Current evidence for dauricine comes primarily from in vitro and animal studies, with limited human clinical data available. Laboratory studies demonstrate IC50 values ranging from 10-50 μM for cancer cell growth inhibition across various cell lines. Animal studies using doses of 5-20 mg/kg showed antiarrhythmic effects in induced arrhythmia models. No large-scale human clinical trials have been conducted to establish therapeutic efficacy or optimal dosing protocols.

Nutritional Profile

Dauricine is a pure isolated bisbenzylisoquinoline alkaloid compound (C38H44N2O6, molecular weight ~628.77 g/mol), not a food or nutritional ingredient. It contains zero macronutrients (0g protein, 0g carbohydrates, 0g fat), no dietary fiber, no vitamins, and no minerals in any nutritional context. As a purified phytochemical compound originally extracted from Menispermum dauricum (Asian moonseed root), its entire profile is defined by its single bioactive molecule. The compound contains two benzylisoquinoline units linked by two ether bridges, with two methoxy groups and two hydroxyl groups contributing to its pharmacological activity. Typical experimental concentrations used in in vitro studies range from 10–100 µM for calcium channel blocking and antiarrhythmic effects, and 50–200 µM for observed anticancer and antioxidant activity. Bioavailability data in humans is extremely limited; animal studies suggest moderate oral absorption with hepatic first-pass metabolism, and the compound is lipophilic (logP estimated ~3.5–4.5), suggesting membrane permeability but potential accumulation concerns. It is not consumed as a nutrient and has no established dietary reference intake or tolerable upper limit.

Preparation & Dosage

No clinically studied dosage ranges or standardized extract concentrations are available in the current research. Consult a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement.

Synergy & Pairings

Resveratrol, Quercetin, Curcumin, EGCG, Berberine

Safety & Interactions

Dauricine may cause hypotension and bradycardia due to its calcium channel blocking properties. The compound potentially interacts with other calcium channel blockers, antiarrhythmic drugs, and blood pressure medications, requiring careful monitoring. Pregnancy and lactation safety data are insufficient, making use inadvisable during these periods. Individuals with existing cardiac conditions should consult healthcare providers before considering dauricine supplementation.