Potential of Fenfuro ^® , a novel, standardized <i>Trigonella foenum-graecum</i> (Fenugreek) seed extract, in ameliorating glycation-mediated amyloidogenesis

The potential of Trigonella foenum-graecum or fenugreek seed extract in alleviating chronic hyperglycemia is supported by scientific evidence. In addition to its role in optimizing the insulin signaling pathway, fenugreek extract can also prevent the generation of Advanced Glycation End products (AGE) by sequestration of reactive carbonyl groups involved in the formation of Schiff base with lysine and arginine residues of protein side chains. In the present work, a patented and standardized extract of Fenfuro^® was found to reduce AGE fluorescence by 75%, along with a corresponding decrease in Thioflavin T fluorescence of nearly 85%. It was determined that these significant spectral changes were due to a combined effect of the protein as well as non-protein part of the extract and not attributable to any single bioactive component. The precipitated protein from the extract itself showed Thio-T fluorescence and gave a single band around the 65 kD MW range. The non-protein supernatant, when incubated with the glycated protein, gave an enhanced AGE as well as Thio-T fluorescence thus negating any possibility of plant extract mediated quenching of fluorescence leading to false interpretations. 8-Anilinonaphthalene-1-sulfonic acid (ANS) fluorescence spectra indicated that the extract provided substantial protection against thermal denaturation.The results collectively provided significant insights for exploring newer avenues of fenugreek-based therapeutics for treating both diabetes and neurodegeneration.