Eurycomanone from Jack upregulates neurotrophin-3 gene expression in retinal Müller cells .

Photoreceptor degeneration decreases light sensitivity and leads to vision loss and various retinal diseases. Neurotrophin-3, originating from Müller glial cells in the retina, plays a key role in protecting photoreceptors from damage induced by light or hypoxia. This neuroprotective approach is important because there are no established methods to regenerate lost photoreceptors. Dietary supplements are one of the useful methods for improving eye health. () Jack, which is native to the tropical forest of Malaysia and other Southeast Asian countries, exhibits several medicinal properties. In the present study, we demonstrated that the water extract of roots enhanced neurotrophin-3 gene expression in primary rat Müller cells. Using a stepwise bioassay-guided fractionation and purification of root extracts, we isolated the active compound underlying neurotrophin-3 gene-enhancing activities. Mass spectrometry and nuclear magnetic resonance spectral data identified the compound as eurycomanone. This study provides evidence for the efficacy of and eurycomanone in enhancing neurotrophin-3 expression in Müller cells . Although the biological significance of this effect and its underlying mechanism remain to be elucidated, this study suggests that may be promising for improving eye health and must be further investigated.