Vitex agnus-castus extract Ze 440 relaxes human myometrium through modulation of calcium channels
Mohr T, Kaufmann U, Schlichting J, Wysk K, Zerbe O, Hamburger M, Potterat O
Published in Planta Medica
Abstract
Study elucidating vitex mechanism of action through calcium channel modulation in uterine smooth muscle, providing mechanistic basis for traditional use in menstrual complaints and supporting dopaminergic activity.
Methodology
Preclinical laboratory (in vitro) pharmacological study using isolated human myometrial tissue strips in organ baths, with bioassay-guided fractionation of Vitex agnus-castus extract Ze 440 and characterisation of active constituents.
Key Findings
Ze 440 and isolated constituents produced concentration-dependent relaxation of pre-contracted human uterine muscle strips, an effect consistent with blockade of voltage-gated calcium channel-mediated contraction.
Conclusions
Vitex agnus-castus extract Ze 440 relaxed human myometrial tissue in vitro, with activity attributed to modulation of calcium channels, offering a possible mechanism for its traditional use in menstrual complaints.
Limitations
Preclinical ex vivo tissue study only (recorded as observational because the database has no in vitro category), with no human dosing, pharmacokinetics or clinical outcomes; concentrations used may not be achievable with oral supplementation.
Supplements Studied
Ze 440 and isolated constituents produced concentration-dependent relaxation of pre-contracted human uterine muscle strips, an effect consistent with blockade of voltage-gated calcium channel-mediated contraction.
Study Details
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