Lotus Seed Green Embryo Extract and a Purified Glycosyloxyflavone Constituent, Narcissoside, Activate TRPV1 Channels in Dorsal Root Ganglion Sensory Neurons

Several studies have documented the broad-spectrum bioactivities of a lotus seed (Plumula nelumbinis [PN]) green embryo extract. However, the specific bioactive components and associated molecular mechanisms remain largely unknown. This study aimed to identify the ion channel-activating mechanisms of PN extracts. Using fluorometric imaging and patch-clamp recordings, PN extracts were screened for calcium channel activation in dorsal root ganglion (DRG) neurons. The TRPV1 channels in DRG neurons were strongly activated by the PN extract (mean amplitude of 131 ± 45 pA at 200 μg/mL) and its purified glycosyloxyflavone narcissoside (401 ± 271 pA at 100 μM). Serial treatment with a 200 μg/mL PN extract in TRPV1-overexpressing HEK293T cells induced robust desensitization to 10 ± 10% of the initial current amplitude. Thus, we propose that the PN extract and narcissoside function as TRPV1 agonists. This new finding may advance our knowledge regarding the traditional and scientific functions of PN in human health and disease.