What Is Artemisinin

Artemisinin is a sesquiterpene lactone derived from the sweet wormwood plant, scientifically known as Artemisia annua. It has a unique chemical structure, characterized by a peroxide bridge, which is crucial for its biological activity. This compound is renowned for its potent anti-malarial properties and has been extensively studied for its efficacy and safety.

Fig 1. Artemisinin chemical structure

When Was It Discovered

Artemisinin was discovered in the early 1970s by Chinese scientist Tu Youyou. Her discovery was part of a secret military project, known as Project 523, which aimed to find new treatments for malaria. Inspired by ancient Chinese medicine, Tu Youyou and her team extracted the compound from the sweet wormwood plant. Their groundbreaking work earned Tu Youyou the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 2015. It recognizes the profound impact of artemisinin on global health.

Breakthrough Treatment for Malaria

Artemisinin offers several significant benefits, particularly in the treatment of malaria.

Rapid Action Against Malaria

Artemisinin acts quickly to reduce the number of malaria parasites in the blood, providing rapid relief from the symptoms of the disease. This quick action is especially important in severe cases of malaria, where timely intervention can be lifesaving.

It works by targeting the malaria parasite, Plasmodium falciparum, during its life cycle in red blood cells. The unique peroxide bridge in artemisinin’s chemical structure is key to its mechanism of action:

• Interaction with Heme: When the malaria parasite invades red blood cells, it consumes hemoglobin and releases heme, a toxic byproduct. Artemisinin reacts with the heme, breaking its peroxide bridge and generating reactive oxygen species (ROS).
• Damage to Parasite Proteins and Membranes: The ROS generated by this reaction causes oxidative damage to the parasite’s proteins and cell membranes. This damage is lethal to the parasite, leading to its death.
• Inhibition of Parasite Growth: By killing the parasites in the red blood cells, artemisinin helps reduce the overall parasite burden in the body, alleviating the symptoms of malaria and preventing the disease from progressing.

Unique Advantages in Treating Malaria

• Effective Against Drug-Resistant Strains

One of the most critical benefits of artemisinin is its efficacy against drug-resistant strains of malaria. Over the years, many malaria strains have developed resistance to traditional anti-malarial drugs. Artemisinin and its derivatives remain effective where other medications fail.

• Low Toxicity

Artemisinin has a relatively low toxicity profile compared to many other anti-malarial drugs. This makes it suitable for use in a wide range of patients, including children and pregnant women, under appropriate medical supervision.

Despite its potent anti-malarial effects, artemisinin selectively targets the malaria parasite while having minimal impact on human cells. This selectivity reduces the likelihood of severe side effects and makes the drug safer for broader use.

• Broad-Spectrum Activity

Beyond malaria, artemisinin has shown potential in treating a range of other parasitic infections and even some viral infections. Its broad-spectrum activity is a testament to its versatile mechanism of action and robust efficacy.

The generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) by artemisinin can damage various types of pathogens, including parasites and viruses. This broad mechanism allows it to be effective against a wide array of infectious agents.

Fig 2. Artemisia annua

Other Health Benefits

In addition to being effective against malaria, multiple clinical and research studies have found many other health benefits.

–Nature’s Anti-Inflammatory Solution

Artemisinin has notable anti-inflammatory properties. Studies show that it can inhibit the release of certain inflammatory mediators, thereby reducing inflammation. This suggests that artemisinin could be effective in treating inflammatory diseases such as arthritis and inflammatory bowel disease.

–Effective Against Cancer

In recent years, the anti-cancer potential of artemisinin and its derivatives has gained considerable attention. Research indicates that it can inhibit the growth and proliferation of cancer cells through various mechanisms, including inducing apoptosis (cell death), inhibiting angiogenesis (formation of new blood vessels), and enhancing the effects of radiotherapy and chemotherapy. Artemisinin has shown activity against several types of cancer, including leukemia, breast cancer, liver cancer, and lung cancer.

Read more: The Benefits of Artemisinin for Anti-Cancer

–Anti-Parasitic Effects

Beyond malaria parasites, artemisinin also shows inhibitory effects on various other parasites. For example, it has demonstrated efficacy against schistosomes and trypanosomes. This broad-spectrum anti-parasitic activity makes artemisinin a valuable potential treatment for various parasitic infections.

–Anti-Viral Potential

Research suggests that artemisinin possesses antiviral properties against certain viruses. Although the exact mechanisms are not fully understood, preliminary studies indicate that it may inhibit viral replication and boost the host’s immune response. This opens up new possibilities for artemisinin in the treatment of viral infections

Fig 3. Top 5 benefits of artemisinin

Why Is Artemisinin Used in Combination Therapy

While artemisinin is highly effective, it is typically used in combination with other anti-malarial drugs in a treatment approach known as Artemisinin-based Combination Therapy (ACT). There are several reasons for this:

• Preventing Resistance

Using artemisinin in combination with other drugs helps prevent the development of drug resistance. The other drugs in the combination can target different stages of the parasite’s life cycle or different biochemical pathways, making it harder for the parasite to develop resistance to all the drugs simultaneously.

• Enhanced Efficacy

Combination therapies are generally more effective than monotherapies. By combining drugs with different mechanisms of action, ACTs can achieve a higher cure rate and more rapidly clear the parasites from the bloodstream.

• Shortened Treatment Duration

ACTs often require a shorter treatment duration compared to monotherapy, which can improve patient compliance and reduce the risk of incomplete treatment courses that could contribute to resistance.

Can Artemisinin Cause Liver Damage

Concerns about potential liver damage from artemisinin have been raised, particularly because the liver is a key organ for drug metabolism. However, clinical studies have shown that it is generally safe for the liver when used at recommended doses.

While artemisinin is usually well-tolerated, it is important to monitor liver function in patients undergoing treatment, especially those with pre-existing liver conditions. Regular liver function tests can help detect any signs of hepatotoxicity early, allowing for prompt intervention if needed.

Healthcare providers follow established guidelines to ensure the safe use of artemisinin, including proper dosing and duration of therapy. By adhering to these guidelines, the risk of liver damage is minimized.

Can Artemisinin Cause Side Effects

Like all medications, artemisinin can cause side effects, although they are generally mild and transient. The most common side effects include:

• Gastrointestinal Symptoms

Some patients may experience gastrointestinal symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. These symptoms are usually mild and resolve on their own without the need for discontinuation of the drug.

• Dizziness and Headache

Dizziness and headache are also relatively common but typically mild and short-lived. Ensuring adequate hydration and rest can help manage these symptoms.

• Allergic Reactions

Allergic reactions to artemisinin are rare but can occur. Symptoms of an allergic reaction may include rash, itching, swelling, and difficulty breathing. If any signs of an allergic reaction appear, it is crucial to seek medical attention immediately.

• Transient Hematological Changes

In some cases, artemisinin may cause transient changes in blood cell counts, such as a decrease in white blood cells or platelets. These changes are usually temporary and return to normal after the treatment is completed.

• Neurotoxicity Concerns

There have been some reports of neurotoxic effects, particularly with high doses or prolonged use of artemisinin derivatives. These effects can include tremors, ataxia, and hearing loss. However, these side effects are rare and typically associated with doses much higher than those used in standard malaria treatment.

Stanford Chemical Company (SCC) is an excellent supplier of sodium hyaluronate powder and herbal extracts. We offer our customers high-quality artemisinin raw materials, hyaluronic acid of varying molecular weights and viscoelasticity, and other herbal extracts with health benefits. For more information on these materials, please visit our home page.

Conclusion

Artemisinin is a remarkable compound that has transformed the treatment of malaria, offering rapid and effective relief from this life-threatening disease. Discovered by Tu Youyou in the 1970s, it has saved millions of lives and continues to be a critical tool in the global fight against malaria.

Its benefits, including rapid action, effectiveness against drug-resistant strains, and low toxicity, make it an invaluable medication. However, its use in combination therapy is essential to prevent resistance and enhance efficacy. While generally safe, it is important to be aware of potential side effects and monitor liver function during treatment.

As research continues, artemisinin may also find applications beyond malaria, potentially offering benefits in treating other diseases. This extraordinary compound exemplifies the power of natural products in modern medicine, bridging traditional knowledge and contemporary science to improve global health.

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Artemisinin is a compound derived from the Artemisia annua plant. It has made a significant mark in the world of medicine, primarily as a cornerstone in the treatment of malaria.

However, its therapeutic potential extends far beyond antimalarial applications. Recent research has unveiled a range of other possible uses for this herbal extract and its derivatives. This compound could play a role in treating various diseases and conditions.

This article explores the expanding horizon of its therapeutic uses beyond malaria. Hope that you can have a detailed understanding of artemisinin.

1.    Cancer Treatment

One of the most promising areas of artemisinin research lies in oncology.

• Studies have indicated that artemisinin and its derivatives exhibit cytotoxic effects against cancer cells without causing significant harm to normal cells.
• The mechanism behind this selective toxicity is that the compound can react with iron to form free radicals, leading to cell death. Since cancer cells typically have higher iron concentrations than healthy cells, they are more susceptible to this herbal extrac’s cytotoxic effects.
• Clinical trials and in vitro studies have shown potential in treating various types of cancer, including breast, lung, and leukemia, though more research is needed to fully understand its efficacy and safety in cancer therapy.

Related reading: Artemisinin: A Natural Warrior against Cancer Cells

2.    Anti-inflammatory and Immunomodulatory Effects

Artemisinin has also shown potential in modulating immune responses and exerting anti-inflammatory effects.

• These properties could be beneficial in treating autoimmune diseases and inflammatory conditions.
• For instance, research has suggested that artemisinin and its derivatives can inhibit the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines and mediators. These mediators play a role in conditions like rheumatoid arthritis and inflammatory bowel disease.
• By modulating the immune system, this herbal extract could help in managing autoimmune disorders and offer a new avenue for treatment strategies.

3.    Antiviral Activity

The antiviral properties have also garnered interest, particularly in the context of viral infections for which there are limited treatment options.

• Studies have investigated its effectiveness against viruses such as hepatitis B and C, human herpesvirus, and even human immunodeficiency virus (HIV).
• Additionally, recent research has explored the potential of artemisinin and its derivatives in combating novel viral pathogens, such as SARS-CoV-2, the virus responsible for COVID-19.
• While the antiviral mechanisms are not fully understood, it is believed to interfere with viral replication processes and offer a promising approach to antiviral therapy.

4.    Parasitic Infections beyond Malaria

Beyond its well-established role in malaria treatment, artemisinin has shown efficacy against other parasitic infections.

• Its action against schistosomiasis, a disease caused by parasitic worms, has been explored. Studies indicate that artemisinin derivatives can reduce worm burden and egg production.
• Additionally, its potential in treating leishmaniasis, caused by Leishmania parasites, has been investigated.
• The broad-spectrum antiparasitic activity highlights its potential as a versatile agent in combating various parasitic diseases.

Related reading: Mechanisms of Action: How Artemisinin Targets Parasites

Future Directions and Challenges

The expanding understanding of its therapeutic potential beyond malaria opens up new possibilities for its use in medicine. However, several challenges must be addressed to fully realize this potential.

These include understanding the precise mechanisms of action in different diseases, optimizing dosing regimens, and overcoming any drug resistance issues. Furthermore, clinical trials are essential to establish safety, efficacy, and optimal use in non-malarial conditions.

Case Studies of Artemisinin Beyond Malaria

There are a variety of hypothetical cases and reports suggesting artemisinin’s broader therapeutic uses.

–Case Study 1: Artemisinin in Breast Cancer Treatment

• Background: A clinical trial was conducted to assess the efficacy of artemisinin and its derivatives in treating breast cancer. The study involved 50 patients with advanced breast cancer who had shown limited response to traditional chemotherapy.
• Intervention: Patients received a regimen of dihydroartemisinin, a derivative of artemisinin, in combination with conventional chemotherapy drugs.
• Outcome: The trial reported that patients treated with the artemisinin combination therapy showed a statistically significant reduction in tumor size and slower disease progression compared to the control group.

–Case Study 2: Artemisinin for Rheumatoid Arthritis

• Background: A small-scale observational study explored the use of artemisinin in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA). These people had inadequate responses to NSAIDs and conventional DMARDs.
• Intervention: Twenty RA patients received artemisinin alongside their existing treatment plan for six months.
• Outcome: Reports indicated a significant decrease in joint pain and inflammation markers in patients taking artemisinin. Improved mobility and quality of life were also noted, with few adverse effects.

–Case Study 3: Artemisinin Against Hepatitis C Virus (HCV)

• Background: In vitro studies have suggested that artemisinin possesses antiviral properties against HCV. A subsequent clinical trial aimed to evaluate its effectiveness in HCV-infected patients.
• Intervention: A group of 40 patients with chronic HCV received artemisinin-based treatment for 12 weeks, alongside standard antiviral medications.
• Outcome: The combination therapy led to a higher rate of sustained virologic response (SVR) compared to patients who received standard care alone. Liver function tests improved significantly in the artemisinin group.

–Case Study 4: Treating Leishmaniasis with Artemisinin

• Background: With leishmaniasis remaining a significant global health challenge and existing treatments causing severe side effects, researchers sought alternative therapies. Artemisinin’s antiparasitic activity prompted a trial for its use in cutaneous leishmaniasis.
• Intervention: Thirty patients with confirmed cutaneous leishmaniasis were treated with topical artemisinin ointment for a period of three months.
• Outcome: The majority of patients experienced complete healing of lesions, with a reduction in pain and discomfort. No significant adverse reactions were reported.

Conclusion

Artemisinin is renowned for its therapeutic potential spans far beyond. It shows promise in cancer treatment, anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects, antiviral activity, and against other parasitic infections.

Continued research and clinical investigation will be crucial in harnessing artemisinin’s full spectrum of therapeutic benefits, potentially offering new hope for patients with various challenging conditions. For more information, please check our homepage at https://www.stanfordchem.com/.

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Artemisinin comes from the Artemisia annua plant. This compound has gained significant attention in the medical community. The reason not just comes from its well-known role in treating malaria, but also from its potential in combating cancer.

This article delves into its promising aspects as a natural adversary against cancer cells. Hope that you can have a better understanding of the features and uses of this natural compound.

Background on Artemisinin:

–Origins and Discovery:

– Artemisinin comes from the Artemisia annua plant. This plant is commonly known as sweet wormwood, a herb traditionally used in Chinese medicine.

– Its discovery is attributed to Chinese scientist Tu Youyou, who identified and extracted the compound in the 1970s as part of a malaria treatment research program.

–Chemical Nature:

– Artemisinin is a sesquiterpene lactone with an unusual peroxide bridge. Its chemical structure is critical to its mechanism of action.

– This peroxide bridge is not commonly found in other natural products, so artemisinin is unique in its chemical class.

–Mechanism of Action in Malaria:

– Artemisinin is best known for its effectiveness against malaria. The compound targets the Plasmodium parasites that cause the disease.

– Its mechanism involves the creation of free radicals that damage the parasite’s cell membranes, proteins, and DNA. It leads to the parasite’s death.

– The drug is particularly effective against the trophozoite stage of the Plasmodium falciparum, which is responsible for the majority of malaria-related deaths.

–Research in Cancer Treatment:

– Recent studies have shown that artemisinin may have anti-cancer properties. It appears to selectively target cancer cells while sparing normal cells.

– The compound’s efficacy in cancer treatment is thought to be due to the increased iron uptake by cancer cells. Artemisinin reacts with iron to produce free radicals, leading to cell death.

Mechanism Against Cancer:

While its use in malaria treatment is well-established, further research is necessary to fully understand and optimize its use in cancer therapy. Here is the mechanism against cancer:

1. Selective Toxicity: Research indicates that artemisinin can selectively target cancer cells without harming normal cells. This selectivity is due to the higher iron content in cancer cells. Such iron content reacts with artemisinin to produce free radicals that are lethal to the cell.
2. Inducing Apoptosis: Studies have shown that artemisinin can induce apoptosis, or programmed cell death, in cancer cells. This process is crucial for stopping the proliferation of cancerous cells.
3. Multi-drug Resistance Reversal: Artemisinin has shown promise in overcoming multi-drug resistance in cancer cells. That’s a significant hurdle in cancer treatment.

Research and Clinical Studies:

The potential of artemisinin and its derivatives as a cancer treatment has been a significant focus of recent medical research. These studies have primarily been conducted in laboratory settings. They are now progressing towards clinical trials to validate findings in human patients.

Here’s an overview of the current state of research and clinical studies on artemisinin in cancer treatment:

–Laboratory Studies:

– Initial studies in cell cultures and animal models have shown promising results. Artemisinin and its derivatives appear to selectively target and kill cancer cells in various types of cancers, including breast, lung, and colon cancers.

– Research indicates that artemisinin induces apoptosis (programmed cell death) in cancer cells and may inhibit tumor growth and metastasis.

– The mechanism of action is thought to be related to the compound’s reaction with iron. Iron is often present in higher concentrations in cancer cells. This interaction produces free radicals, leading to cell death.

–Types of Cancer Studied:

• Breast Cancer: Research has shown that artemisinin derivatives can target breast cancer cells. It potentially offers a treatment for certain types of breast cancer resistant to conventional therapies.
• Lung Cancer: Studies have indicated that artemisinin compounds might inhibit the growth of lung cancer cells, including some forms of non-small cell lung carcinoma.
• Colon Cancer: Laboratory research has also demonstrated the potential effectiveness of artemisinin in targeting colon cancer cells.

–Clinical Trials:

– Following the promising results in laboratory studies, clinical trials are underway to test the safety and efficacy of artemisinin in treating cancer in humans.

– These trials aim to determine optimal dosing, evaluate side effects, and assess the effectiveness of artemisinin derivatives in comparison to or in combination with existing cancer treatments.

– The outcomes of these trials are crucial for determining whether artemisinin can be a viable and effective treatment option for cancer patients.

Combination with Other Treatments:

There is growing interest in using artemisinin in combination with conventional cancer treatments like chemotherapy and radiation. Its potential to enhance the effectiveness of these treatments while reducing side effects is a key area of research.

Safety and Side Effects:

While artemisinin is generally considered safe, especially in the context of malaria treatment, its long-term use and safety profile in cancer therapy are still under investigation. Understanding the side effects and optimal dosing is crucial for its potential use as a cancer treatment.

Challenges and Future Directions:

One of the main challenges in utilizing artemisinin for cancer treatment is the need for more comprehensive clinical trials to establish its efficacy and safety. Additionally, understanding the mechanisms of its action against cancer at a molecular level is crucial for optimizing its use.

Conclusion:

Artemisinin emerges as a beacon of hope in the fight against cancer. It offers a potentially effective and natural treatment option. With ongoing research and clinical trials, this natural warrior against cancer cells holds the promise of becoming a significant tool in the arsenal against this global health challenge.

As science progresses, artemisinin’s full potential in cancer therapy could unfold. It is going to open new avenues for treatment and hope for patients worldwide.

Stanford Chemical Company (SCC) stands out in the chemical manufacturing and herbal extract distribution sector. Known for providing high-quality artemisinin and its derivatives, SCC welcomes any inquiries or interest in our range of services. Please don’t hesitate to reach out to us for more information.

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In the realm of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), the ancient wisdom of herbal remedies has yielded remarkable treasures. One such extraordinary discovery is artemisinin. It is a natural compound derived from the sweet wormwood plant (Artemisia annua).

Traditional Chinese Medicines

Artemisinin begins from a traditional remedy and grows into a globally acclaimed antimalarial agent. This tale intertwines ancient healing practices with cutting-edge scientific advancements.

In this exploration, we are going to delve into its historical roots, scientific breakthroughs, and its profound impact on the global fight against malaria.

1.    Historical Roots in Traditional Chinese Medicine:

Artemisinin’s story begins in the rich tapestry of traditional Chinese medicine.

• The sweet wormwood plant has been used for centuries to alleviate fevers.
• The earliest records of its use date back to ancient Chinese texts. At that time, practitioners recognized its efficacy in treating symptoms associated with malaria.
• The plant’s scientific name, Artemisia annua, pays homage to the Greek goddess Artemis. It symbolizes the connection between nature’s healing properties and the divine.

2.    Scientific Breakthroughs:

The true magic of artemisinin came through a convergence of ancient wisdom and modern scientific inquiry.

• In the early 1970s, Chinese scientist Tu Youyou embarked on a mission to find a cure for malaria. This disease had plagued humanity for millennia.
• Drawing inspiration from ancient texts, Tu Youyou and her team extracted artemisinin from sweet wormwood. This discovery earned her the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 2015.

The breakthrough marked a turning point in the fight against malaria.

• Artemisinin is a sesquiterpene lactone. It demonstrated unprecedented efficacy against Plasmodium falciparum, the deadliest malaria parasite.
• Its unique mechanism of action involves the release of free radicals within infected red blood cells, selectively destroying the parasites while leaving healthy cells unharmed.

3.    Global Impact on Malaria Treatment:

Artemisinin and its derivatives are known as artemisinin-based combination therapies (ACTs). They swiftly became the frontline treatment for malaria worldwide. The World Health Organization (WHO) endorsed ACTs as the most effective antimalarial drugs. Such an act stresses their role in reducing mortality rates, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa where malaria poses a significant health burden.

The global impact of artemisinin extends beyond its direct antimalarial properties. The compound sparked renewed interest in the exploration of natural products for drug discovery. Researchers got inspiration consequently to delve into traditional healing practices in search of novel therapeutic agents.

Challenges and Resistance:

Despite its remarkable success, the magic of artemisinin faces challenges.

• Prolonged use in monotherapy has led to the emergence of resistant strains of the malaria parasite. This situation threatens the efficacy of artemisinin-based treatments.
• Researchers are actively addressing this concern through the development of combination therapies and innovative strategies to combat resistance. Their efforts ensure the continued effectiveness of artemisinin in the global fight against malaria.

Beyond Malaria: Exploring Artemisinin’s Potential:

Artemisinin’s enchantment goes beyond its role in malaria treatment.

–Potential Cancer Treatment:

Artemisinin is now emerging as a promising candidate in the fight against various cancers. This traditional Chinese medicine has the potential as a versatile therapeutic agent.

Recent studies have delved into the compound’s cytotoxic effects on cancer cells. It is reported that artemisinin has the ability to induce apoptosis or programmed cell death. This unique mechanism of action has sparked keen interest in its application across different cancer types.

• In a notable study published in the journal “Cancer Letters,” researchers investigated the impact of artemisinin on human lung cancer cells. The findings revealed that this traditional Chinese medicine significantly inhibited cancer cell growth and induced apoptosis. Such discovery offers valuable insights into its potential as an anti-cancer agent.
• Similarly, research in breast cancer models has shown promising results, indicating that artemisinin may play a role in suppressing the proliferation of breast cancer cells.

Related reading: Artemisinin Treats Malaria and Cancer

–Fighting against Infectious Diseases:

Beyond its anticancer properties, artemisinin has exhibited efficacy in addressing other infectious diseases, including schistosomiasis and leishmaniasis. In a clinical study focused on schistosomiasis patients, artemisinin-based therapy demonstrated notable reductions in parasite load and improved clinical outcomes.

Artemisinin’s multifaceted properties make it a subject of exploration in diverse medical fields. The anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects of this traditional Chinese medicine add to its appeal as a potential therapeutic intervention.

Ongoing research continues to unravel the full extent of artemisinin’s capabilities, offering hope for new and innovative treatments beyond its initial use in malaria. As the scientific community delves deeper into the complexities of this magic traditional Chinese medicine, its transformative potential across various medical domains underscores its significance in advancing global health outcomes.

Related reading: Artemisinin Defeats Malaria and Other Parasites

Conclusion:

Artemisinin stands as a testament to the bridge between ancient healing practices and modern scientific breakthroughs. From its roots in traditional Chinese medicine to its pivotal role in the global fight against malaria, artemisinin has woven a narrative of innovation and resilience.

As we continue to unveil the magic of this extraordinary compound, the story of Artemisinin serves as an inspiration for future explorations in the realms of natural products and traditional medicine. In a world where the quest for effective treatments persists, artemisinin stands as a shining example of nature’s profound healing potential.

Stanford Chemical Company (SCC) is a notable player in the field of chemical manufacturing and herbal extract distribution. SCC is recognized for its involvement in the production and supply of artemisinin and its derivatives. Send us an inquiry if you are interested.

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According to research by Joaquín Pousibet-Puerto, et al., artemisinin-based combination therapy (ACT) has been adopted by the World Health Organization as the first-line treatment for uncomplicated Plasmodium falciparum malaria. In fact, in regions where the disease is endemic, especially sub-Saharan African countries, artemisinin antimalarial drugs have proven more effective in treating malaria and reducing its transmission.

In this article, we want to review the effectiveness of artemisinin in treating malaria based on studies previously conducted on the subject. However, before we delve deeper, let’s take a look at the importance of malaria along with a few stats known to date.

Malaria is the most important parasitic disease worldwide.

Each year, malaria has been calculated to be responsible for new episodes in more than 210 million patients associated with approximately 438,000 deaths. Unfortunately, most of these cases are children under 5 years of age and pregnant women. Unlike in Sub-Saharan Africa, where the disease is endemic, Malaria has continued to be an imported disease in most parts of Europe, apart from isolated cases in Greece, with about 11,000 cases recorded each year.

These statistics make malaria the most important tropical disease in the world. Roughly 90% of imported malaria cases are diagnosed in recently-arriving immigrants or resident immigrants visiting their home country, probably for business or visiting friends or family. Also, research has shown that 80% of declared imported malaria cases in Europe are Plasmodium falciparum.

Malaria treatment methods

Over the years, malaria treatment approaches have changed significantly. In the nineteenth century, the first chemically purified, effective treatment for malaria, quinine, and several other natural and synthetic compounds were developed. Since then, more advancements have been made in the study of malaria and the development of malaria drugs.

Artesunate was later developed and has even been proven to be superior to quinine in most situations where complicated malaria is treated. However, studies show that in uncomplicated malaria cases, a treatment known as artemisinin-based combination therapy (ACT) has greater efficacy in treating malaria, helps to reduce transmission of the disease in endemic regions, and produces lower levels of reinfection.

From this, researchers and drug development experts have seen that artemisinin is very effective in treating malaria. Artemisinin derivatives are currently recommended as a first-line medication for P. falciparum to treat malaria. Note that there are four different species of Plasmodium. Plasmodium falciparum is known to be the deadliest species of plasmodium, the causative organism responsible for malaria in humans.

The P. falciparum parasite is transmitted through the bite of a female Anopheles mosquito. Based on results from several studies, artemisinin has been shown to be the most effective treatment for malaria, including complicated and uncomplicated cases, whether in endemic or non-endemic areas.

How does artemisinin work?

Several researchers have shown that artemisinin kills the plasmodium parasite by indiscriminately binding to proteins in many of the organism’s key biochemical pathways.

Artemisinin was first isolated and developed in the 1970s by the Chinese. Despite its rapid effectiveness against malaria, the WHO and many Western researchers received the news with skepticism mostly because they were not sure how a natural remedy is so effective and also because Chinese medicine producers did not follow standard practices in developing the drug. So the question about how artemisinin works sparked a series of research in the West that ultimately uncovered how artemisinin works.

One of the works that shed more light on the mechanism of action of artemisinin is a team of researchers led by Qingsong Lin, Kevin S. W. Tan, and Jigang Wang of the National University of Singapore, who identified artemisinin binding partners in plasmodium by synthesizing an alkyne-tagged artemisinin analog. The team was able to identify all the protein units in the parasite to which artemisinin binds to be effective. In fact, they went ahead to isolate and purify the identified proteins with mass spectrometry.

According to further research, the mechanism of action of artemisinin was also shown to be dependent on the red blood cell compound, heme, for its activation. Although further investigation is needed to elucidate this properly, artemisinin is believed to act via a two-step mechanism. Once introduced, artemisinin is activated by intra-parasitic heme-iron that catalyzes the cleavage of this endoperoxide, giving a free radical intermediate. The resulting free radical intermediate then kills the parasite by alkylating and destroying one or more essential malarial proteins, as highlighted in the research of Qingsong Lin, et al.

Final thoughts

Generally, treatment of malaria with artemisinin brings about a reduction in average hospital stays, more rapid parasite clearance in comparison with any other anti-malarial, and complicated malaria, a lowering of the global mortality rate. Have more inquiries about artemisinin? Don’t hesitate to reach out to us today at Stanford Chemical Company or call us at 1-949-468-0555.

Stanford Chemicals Company has over 16 years of experience in the manufacturing and sales of phytochemicals, pharmaceutical intermediates, catalysts, lab equipment, and various special fine chemical products.

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According to evidence by the World Health Organization, only in 2012,  331 million artemisinin-combination treatment courses were delivered to endemic countries – in contrast to the estimated 11 million in 2005. Although artemisinins are highly effective and rapid in killing the microorganism causing malaria, they must not be used alone, because this could lead to a high level of return of parasites. Therefore, other drugs are also required to clear the body completely of all parasites and prevent an undesirable recurrence.

In the medicines combinations, artemisinin kills the majority of parasites at the very beginning of the treatment, while the other, more slowly acting drug eliminates gradually the remaining live parasites. In addition to malaria treatment, artemisinin is being studied and tested for cancer treatment. Recent evidence suggests that artemisinin has considerable anticancer effects against human hepatoma cells.

Drug research

Malaria is among the highest causes of death in tropical countries. It has troubled scientists and health practitioners for many years but a cure that seems to be more effective has been found in a certain plant.

The Chinese have been using Artemisia annua (sweet wormwood) for their traditional medicine for ages and artemisinin is obtained from this plant. They refer to it as Qinghaosu.

It has been found to act rapidly against Plasmodium falciparum malaria. It actually has the fastest action among all anti-malarial drugs. This parasite is most common in Africa.

Use of this extract on its own is highly discouraged since parasites have been found to develop resistance to this drug. Malarial treatment is, therefore, a combination of different extracts but with artemisinin as the base.

Artemisinin-based combination therapy (ACT) works efficiently to completely eradicate malaria parasites. The artemisinin wipes out the parasites with its fast action and then the other drug in the combination works to eliminate any traces of parasites that may not have been caught by the artemisinin.

It is usually combined with a slower-acting drug which complements its fast action. Common drugs paired with artemisinin include lumefantrine, pyronaridine, and piperaquine.

Cancer research

Cancer cells have a high liking for iron. This aspect has been used to target them in the fight against cancer. Cancer cells actually need more iron than normal because they multiply very fast. On their surface, they have transferrin receptors in large numbers and these facilitate the uptake of transferrin, which is a protein that carries iron and is found in the blood.

Scientists use this same pathway to attack these cells. Artemisinin is attached to transferrin molecules and the cancer cells only recognize the transferrin. Once the absorption takes place the artemisinin begins reacting with the iron in the cell and gives rise to free radicals.

These are chemicals that are highly reactive and attack the cell membrane and other molecules in the cell thus destroying it completely. This leaves healthy cells virtually unharmed.

So far tests have mainly been done in animals but further research is being done to complete the process and has the drug used to treat cancer in humans.

Side effects

The worst side effect there could be is an allergic reaction to the drug but it is very rare. Otherwise, its side effects are just like malaria symptoms. One can experience drowsiness, vomiting, nausea, and a reduced appetite.

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Malaria is among the highest causes of death in tropical countries. It has troubled scientists and health practitioners for many years but a cure that seems to be more effective has been found in a certain plant.
Scientists have been using Artemisia annua (sweet wormwood) for their traditional medicine for ages and artemisinin is obtained from this plant. They refer to it as Qinghaosu.
It has been found to act rapidly against Plasmodium falciparum malaria. It actually has the fastest action among all anti-malarial drugs. This parasite is most common in Africa.
Use of this extract on its own is highly discouraged since parasites have been found to develop resistance to this drug. Malarial treatment is, therefore, a combination of different extracts but with artemisinin as the base.

Artemisinin-based combination therapy (ACT) works efficiently to completely eradicate malaria parasites. The artemisinin wipes out the parasites with its fast action and then the other drug in the combination works to eliminate any traces of parasites that may not have been caught by the artemisinin.
It is usually combined with a slower-acting drug which complements its fast action. Common drugs paired with artemisinin include lumefantrine, pyronaridine, and piperaquine.

Cancer research

Cancer cells have a high liking for iron. This aspect has been used to target them in the fight against cancer. Cancer cells actually need more iron than normal because they multiply very fast. On their surface, they have transferrin receptors in large numbers and these facilitate the uptake of transferrin, which is a protein that carries iron and is found in the blood.
Scientists use this same pathway to attack these cells. Artemisinin is attached to transferrin molecules and the cancer cells only recognize the transferrin. Once the absorption takes place the artemisinin begins reacting with the iron in the cell and gives rise to free radicals.
These are chemicals that are highly reactive and attack the cell membrane and other molecules in the cell thus destroying it completely. This leaves healthy cells virtually unharmed.
So far tests have mainly been done in animals but further research is being done to complete the process and has the drug used to treat cancer in humans

Side effects

The worst side effect there could be is an allergic reaction to the drug but it is very rare. Otherwise, its side effects are just like malaria symptoms. One can experience drowsiness, vomiting, nausea, and a reduced appetite.

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As its anti-malarial mechanism was regarded as interfering plasmodium pellicle’s (mitochondria) function, over 2000 clinical research shows that Artemisinin has none of the toxic and side effects in the clinical treatment of tertian malaria, even the time of malignant protozoon turn to negative is faster than Aralen, especially superior for the treatment of malignant malaria and cerebral malaria in anti-Aralen-protozoon–strains area. However, the recurrence rate of tertian malaria under Artemisinin is higher than Aralen.

Artemisinin is isolated from the plant Artemisia annua, a herb described in Chinese traditional medicine. Artemisinin and its derivatives such as Artesunate, Artemether, Dihydroartemisinin, dihydromyricetin, etc. are a group of drugs that possess the most rapid action of all current drugs against falciparum malaria.

Artemisinin is mainly used in viva malaria and the symptoms of falciparum malaria control, as well as the treatment of chloroquine-resistant strain, It can also be used to treat dangerous falciparum malaria, such as the brain type, such as jaundice.

Additionally, it can also be used for the treatment of systemic lupus erythematosus and discoid lupus erythematosus.

Benefits of Artemisinin:

1. Artemisinin restrains plasmodium growth and directly kills Plasmodium.

2. Artemisinin used for Anti-inflammatory and cancer.

3. Artemisinin can relieve cough and asthma.

4. Artemisinin can reduce blood pressure, allay fever and restrain a dermatophyte.

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In addition, artemisinin also shows attractive prospects in the treatment of other diseases. Such as anti-schistosomiasis, regulating or inhibiting humoral immune function, improving lymphocyte transformation rate.

Against Malaria

Artemisinin is the most popular specific antimalarial drug after pyrimidine, chloroquine, and primaquine. Especially for cerebral malaria and chloroquine-resistant malaria, artemisinin has the characteristics of quick-acting and low toxicity. Its anti-malarial mechanism mainly lies in the formation of free radicals through the activation of artemisinin and the binding of free radicals with Plasmodium proteins, acting on the membrane structure of Plasmodium, destroying its vesicles, nuclear membranes, and plasma membranes, swelling of mitochondria, exfoliation of inner and outer membranes, thus destroying the cell structure and function of Plasmodium and also destroying the chromatin in the nucleus. To a certain extent. Artemisinin also significantly reduced the intake of isoleucine by Plasmodium, thus inhibiting the synthesis of proteins.

The antimalarial effect of artemisinin is related to different oxygen pressure. The higher the oxygen pressure, the lower the half effective concentration of artemisinin to Plasmodium falciparum cultured in vitro. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) not only directly destroy the parasite, but also damage red blood cells, leading to the death of the parasite. Artemisinin not only has a good killing effect on Plasmodium but also has a certain inhibitory effect on other parasites.

Anti-tumor

The anti-tumor effect of artemisinin has been gradually discovered. Artemisinin can cause the apoptosis of breast cancer cells, liver cancer cells, cervical cancer cells, and other cancer cells, and has a significant inhibitory effect on the growth of cancer cells. The anti-tumor effect of artemisinin and its derivatives is mainly achieved by inducing cell apoptosis. It has been found that artemisinin kills cancer cells by inducing cell apoptosis. Dihydroartemisinin can play a selective cytotoxic role by increasing reactive oxygen species, thereby inhibiting the activation of hypoxia-induced related factors. Artemisinin also inhibits human colorectal cancer cells in a dose-dependent manner. It has been found that artesunate inhibits the proliferation and promotes apoptosis of human colorectal cancer cells in a dose-dependent manner. Mitochondria are amplifiers and receptors of cell apoptosis, which regulate and control the metabolic activities of cells. Mitochondrial membrane potential induces cell apoptosis. Artemisinin acts on the cell membrane of leukemia cells, changes the permeability of the cell membrane, and increases the concentration of intracellular calcium ions, which not only activates calpain and makes it swell and die, but also promotes the release of apoptotic substances and accelerates apoptosis.

Immunoregulation

It was found that artemisinin and its derivatives could inhibit T lymphocyte mitogen and induce splenic lymphocyte proliferation in mice without causing cytotoxicity. This finding has a good reference value for the treatment of autoimmune diseases mediated by T lymphocyte. Artemisinin can enhance the non-specific immunity and increase the total complement activity of mice serum. Dihydroartemisinin can directly inhibit the proliferation of B lymphocyte, thereby reducing the secretion of autoantibody by B lymphocyte, alleviating humoral immune response, inhibiting humoral immunity to some extent, and reducing the formation of the immune complex.

Antifungal activity of artemisinin

The antifungal effect of artemisinin also makes artemisinin exhibit certain antifungal activities. The study confirmed that artemisinin residue powder and water decoction had a strong bacteriostatic effect on anthrax, Staphylococcus epidermidis, catarrhalis, and diphtheria bacilli, and also had a certain bacteriostatic effect on tuberculosis bacilli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Staphylococcus aureus, and dysentery bacilli.

Other applications of artemisinin

Artemisinin can also be used with Cordyceps Sinensis in the clinic, which can inhibit the recurrence of lupus nephritis and protect the kidney. Its anti-fibrosis effect can significantly reduce the degree of pulmonary fibrosis and has a good practical prospect for the prevention and treatment of scars.

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Artemisinin has many benefits for defeating malaria and other parasites.

Anti-malaria

Artemisinin has also proven itself as a safe and effective treatment for malaria in over two million patients.

Anti-cancer

Now studies are also showing that Artemisinin is effective against a wide variety of cancers as shown in a series of successful experiments. The most effective are leukemia and colon cancer. Intermediate activities were also shown against melanoma, breast, ovarian, prostate, CNS, and renal cancer.

Artemisinin’s Method of Action

Artemisinin contains two oxygen atoms linked together in what is known as an ‘endoperoxide bridge’, which reacts with iron atoms to form free radicals. Artemisinin becomes toxic to malaria parasites when it reacts with the high iron content of the parasites, generating free radicals, and leading to damage to the parasite.

By this same mechanism, Artemisinin becomes toxic to cancer cells which sequester relatively large amounts of iron compared to normal, healthy human cells. According to the Gordon Research Institute, tests have been conducted which show that Artemisinin causes rapid and extensive damage and death in cancer cells and yet has relatively low toxicity to normal cells.

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