Abstract:
Nicotine addiction is a major global health challenge, necessitating the development of innovative therapeutic solutions beyond conventional pharmacological interventions, such as nicotine replacement therapy and synthetic receptor modulators, which often exhibit limited efficacy and adverse side effects. Recent research highlights the potential of phytomolecules i.e.bioactive compounds derived from plants—as promising alternatives for modulating nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (nAChRs). These natural compounds exert their effects through diverse mechanisms, including competitive and non-competitive inhibition, allosteric modulation, and receptor desensitization, thereby influencing nicotine's neuropharmacological impact.Among nAChRs, the α4β2 and α7 subtypes play critical roles in nicotine dependence, with partial agonists demonstrating therapeutic potential by modulating receptor activity, alleviating withdrawal symptoms, and reducing relapse risk. Several bioactive phytomolecules, including cytisine, lobeline, anatabine, nornicotine, coniine, and arecoline, exhibit partial agonist activity at these receptors offering natural alternatives or adjuncts to synthetic drugs like varenicline.Besides, bioactive compounds of C. sinensis and M.oleifera shows potential as α-2 nAChR inhibitors.Additionally, some plant-derived compounds such as Theaflavin-3-Gallate, Asiaticoside, and Theaflavin-3,3-Digallate are also identified as potent inhibitors of specific nAChR subtypes, including α3 and α2, expanding the therapeutic landscape for nicotine dependence.In this way, by leveraging the receptor-modulatory effects of phytomolecules, novel, plant-based therapeutic strategies can be developed, offering safer, more accessible, and effective options for nicotine addiction treatment.
Keywords: Nicotine addiction, nAChRs , Bioactive Phytomolecule, Receptor modulation, Natural inhibitors, Therapeutic strategies
Biography:
Dr.Anita V.Handore is Founder and Director of innovation based Biotech Startup, Phytoelixir Pvt.Ltd., and Nashik.MS, INDIA. She is PhD in Microbiology and M.Phil. In Environmental Science. She is a prominent women Bio scientist having credit of two process patents in Microbiology, and Plant Biotechnology. Her next 3 filed patents are in fields of Agriculture- Biotechnology, Food Technology and Phyto-nutraceuticals. Since last decades, with her masterliness in innovative Research & Development along with special skills of translating laboratorial research into appropriate technology for sustainable livelihood, she has greatly contributed to diverse sectors. Dr.Anita has commendably & successfully shouldered managerial & administrative responsibilities and effectively working as, programme Advisory Committee member, for Research Foundations, renowned National University.She is Editorial board member and author for various International Journals and books of repute. She has been working as research guide-mentor for students of well-known Indian Universities and institutes . Over 89 research publications , presentations in reputed International and National research Journals together with invited talks on use of specific phytomolecules against different types of diseases and disorders including cancer at prestigious International forums and platforms along with 16 book chapters and books published with world leading publishers are to her credit. Sequences database of more than nine novel and rare endophytes discovered by her, submitted to NCBI GenBank is creditable. As a part of her social responsibility, she actively participates in various social activities and serve her knowledge and experience for awareness and upliftment of society.Till date, she has been honored & appreciated with more than 19 awards for her outstanding research contribution towards Biotechnology, Microbiology, Food and Nutraceutical, Ayurveda -Healthcare, Agriculture, Environment , Education and social sectors by various State level, National and International forums working in scientific and social sectors. With her profound vision Dr.Anita has started journey as an entrepreneur with the purpose to serve hidden treasure of nature & bring resilience by revitalizing living beings, using scientific and innovative power to tackle some global challenges & create value for society at large.
