tripterygium wilfordii extract

Tripterygium wilfordii extract is a **plant-derived botanical drug** obtained from the roots, stems, and branches of *Tripterygium wilfordii* Hook F (thunder god vine), a climbing vine traditionally used in Chinese herbal medicine. The extract contains over 500 metabolites including **triptolide** and **celastrol** as the primary bioactive compounds responsible for its pharmacological effects[1][2]. The extract demonstrates **potent anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive properties** through multiple mechanisms including inhibition of pro-inflammatory cytokine production (MCP1, GM-CSF, M-CSF), suppression of NF-κB activation, downregulation of TLR4 expression, and modulation of immune cell activation[1][5]. These effects are primarily mediated by its abundant diterpenoid tri-epoxides, particularly triptolide and celastrol[2]. Different extraction methods have been developed to reduce toxicity, including **ethyl acetate and chloroform-methanol extracts** introduced in the 1970s[4]. The extract has been evaluated in randomized controlled trials for rheumatoid arthritis, showing significant improvements in disease severity and joint function compared to placebo[1]. Clinical dosages studied range from 60-350 mg daily for rheumatoid arthritis treatment[4].

Brand names

Lei Gong Teng

Other names

thunder god vine extractTripterygium wilfordii Hook F extract