Astragaloside II: Properties, Uses & FAQs

Astragaloside II is a naturally occurring cycloartane-type triterpenoid saponin isolated from Astragalus membranaceus, widely used in pharmacological and biochemical research for its reported immunomodulatory and cytoprotective properties.

Chemical Class

Cycloartane-type triterpenoid saponin

Natural Source

Astragalus membranaceus (Huangqi) root

CAS Number

84676-89-1

Product SKU

A1526895

Recommended Storage

Store at −20 °C, protected from light and moisture

Typical Solubility

Soluble in DMSO and methanol; limited aqueous solubility

What Is Astragaloside II?

Astragaloside II is a cycloartane-type triterpenoid saponin found in the roots of Astragalus membranaceus (Huangqi), a plant with a long history of use in traditional Chinese medicine. It belongs to the same structural family as Astragaloside I, III, and IV, all of which share a cycloastragenol aglycone backbone with varying glycosylation patterns. Astragaloside II carries two sugar moieties that distinguish it from the more commonly studied Astragaloside IV. Researchers use it as a reference standard and as an active probe compound to dissect structure–activity relationships within the astragaloside series.

Physicochemical Properties and Solubility

Astragaloside II is a white to off-white powder at room temperature. Its molecular formula is C₄₅H₇₂O₁₆ with a molecular weight of approximately 857.0 g/mol. The compound is moderately lipophilic owing to its triterpenoid core, yet the two sugar residues confer partial hydrophilicity. For laboratory use, it is best dissolved in dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) or methanol to prepare stock solutions. Direct dissolution in aqueous buffers is limited; if aqueous solutions are required, researchers typically prepare a concentrated DMSO stock and dilute into the aqueous medium, keeping the final DMSO concentration below 0.1% to avoid solvent-related cytotoxicity in cell-based assays.

Note: Exact solubility values should be confirmed against the certificate of analysis (CoA) supplied with each lot.

Reported Biological Activities

Astragaloside II has been investigated in preclinical research for several pharmacological activities. Studies have explored its potential immunomodulatory effects, including modulation of cytokine secretion and immune cell proliferation. Some research has examined cytoprotective and antioxidant activities at the cellular level. Additional investigations have looked at its influence on inflammatory signaling pathways. Because many published studies focus primarily on Astragaloside IV, the specific mechanistic data for Astragaloside II are less extensive; researchers should critically evaluate primary literature before designing experiments.

Disclaimer: Aladdin Scientific products are supplied for research use only and are not intended for diagnostic, therapeutic, or human consumption purposes.

Storage, Handling, and Stability

To maintain compound integrity, Astragaloside II should be stored at −20 °C in a tightly sealed container, protected from light, heat, and moisture. Upon receipt, it is advisable to divide the bulk material into single-use aliquots to minimise freeze–thaw cycles, which can accelerate degradation. Prepared stock solutions in DMSO are generally stable for several months when stored at −20 °C; however, aqueous solutions should be prepared fresh or used within 24–48 hours. Always allow the vial to equilibrate to room temperature before opening to prevent moisture condensation on the compound. Refer to the lot-specific CoA for confirmed shelf-life and purity data.

Ordering and Regulatory Information

Astragaloside II is available from Aladdin Scientific under SKU A1526895. It is supplied as a research-grade material with a certificate of analysis documenting purity (typically verified by HPLC) and physicochemical identity (NMR, MS). To place an order, add the product to your cart on the Aladdin Scientific website or contact our sales team directly. Bulk quantities and custom packaging may be available upon request. Astragaloside II is not classified as a controlled substance under standard international regulations, but purchasers are responsible for compliance with all applicable local import and use regulations. For safety information, consult the Safety Data Sheet (SDS) available on the product page.

Frequently asked questions

What is the difference between Astragaloside II and Astragaloside IV?

Astragaloside II and Astragaloside IV share the same cycloastragenol aglycone core but differ in their sugar substitution patterns: Astragaloside II carries two sugar moieties, whereas Astragaloside IV bears one fewer sugar group, resulting in different molecular weights and polarity profiles. Astragaloside IV is more extensively studied in the literature, particularly in the context of telomerase activation and anti-aging research, while Astragaloside II is used primarily as a reference compound and for structure–activity relationship studies within the series.

In which solvents can Astragaloside II be dissolved for cell-based assays?

Astragaloside II dissolves readily in DMSO and methanol. For cell-based assays, prepare a concentrated stock solution in DMSO (typically 10–50 mM) and then dilute into the cell culture medium immediately before use, ensuring the final DMSO concentration does not exceed 0.1% v/v to avoid solvent cytotoxicity. Direct dissolution in aqueous buffers is not recommended due to limited water solubility.

How should Astragaloside II be stored to ensure maximum shelf life?

Store Astragaloside II at −20 °C in a sealed, light-protected container away from moisture. Aliquot the compound upon receipt to minimise repeated freeze–thaw cycles. DMSO stock solutions stored at −20 °C are generally stable for several months, but prepared aqueous solutions should be used within 24–48 hours. Always allow the sealed vial to reach room temperature before opening to prevent moisture condensation.

Is Astragaloside II suitable for in vivo studies?

Astragaloside II has been used in preclinical in vivo studies as reported in primary literature; however, researchers must independently establish appropriate dosing, formulation, and vehicle conditions for their specific animal models. Aladdin Scientific supplies Astragaloside II (SKU A1526895) strictly for research purposes and does not provide guidance on in vivo administration protocols. Researchers should consult the relevant literature and their institutional ethics committee before conducting animal studies.

How can I verify the purity of the Astragaloside II I receive?

Each lot of Astragaloside II from Aladdin Scientific is accompanied by a certificate of analysis (CoA) that documents purity as determined by HPLC, along with identity confirmation by techniques such as NMR and MS. The CoA is available for download on the product page (SKU A1526895) by entering your lot number. If you require additional characterisation data or have concerns about a specific lot, please contact Aladdin Scientific technical support.

References

1. General phytochemical and pharmacological reviews of Astragalus membranaceus saponins — see primary literature for specific data on Astragaloside II.
2. Aladdin Scientific product page for Astragaloside II, SKU A1526895, including certificate of analysis and safety data sheet.

Products are supplied for research and development use only. Not for use in humans, animals, diagnosis, or therapy.