Passiflora incarnata extract inhibits adenosine A1, A2A, and serotonin 5-HT2A receptors and monoamine uptake in vitro
A standardized Passiflora incarnata extract showed concentration-dependent inhibition of binding to adenosine A1, A2A, and serotonin 5-HT2A receptors, and inhibited dopamine, norepinephrine, and serotonin uptake in rat cortical synaptosomes. Melatonin MT1 and orexin OX1 receptors were unaffected. These multi-target effects support the traditional use of passionflower for sleep promotion.
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Passiflora incarnata extract inhibits adenosine A1, A2A, and serotonin 5-HT2A receptors and monoamine uptake in vitro The current body of evidence comprises 1 study. EvidenceHub rates the overall confidence at 24/100 (low).
The Claim
Passiflora incarnata extract inhibits adenosine A1, A2A, and serotonin 5-HT2A receptors and monoamine uptake in vitro
This conclusion is most relevant to: In vitro assays using rat cortical synaptosomes and receptor binding preparations.
What the Research Shows
The conclusion draws on 1 linked study. Highlights from the cited literature:
- ▸A Passiflora incarnata extract exerts multi-target effects on selected sleep-related receptors. (Journal of ethnopharmacology, 2026) —
How It Works
The proposed biological pathway:
- ▸Extract binds to adenosine A1 and A2A receptors
- ▸Extract binds to serotonin 5-HT2A receptor
- ▸Extract inhibits dopamine, norepinephrine, and serotonin reuptake
- ▸Multi-target modulation of sleep-related neurotransmitter pathways
Who Might Benefit
Evidence fit by population:
- ▸In vitro assays using rat cortical synaptosomes and receptor binding preparations
Recommended Dose
N/A
Limitations & Caveats
Important context when interpreting this evidence:
- ▸In vitro study only; in vivo effects and clinical relevance not established
- ▸Active components responsible for observed effects remain unidentified
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Passiflora incarnata affect melatonin receptors?▼
No, the study found that the extract did not affect melatonin MT1 receptors.
What neurotransmitters are influenced by this extract?▼
The extract inhibited the uptake of dopamine, norepinephrine, and serotonin in rat cortical synaptosomes.
Is this study done on humans?▼
No, this is an in vitro study using rat brain tissue and receptor binding assays, not human subjects.
What receptors does Passiflora incarnata bind to?▼
It binds to adenosine A1, A2A, and serotonin 5-HT2A receptors, but not melatonin MT1 or orexin OX1 receptors.
References
- 1.Appel K, Schwarzensteiner I, Zimmermann C, Tober C, Günnewich N. “A Passiflora incarnata extract exerts multi-target effects on selected sleep-related receptors..” Journal of ethnopharmacology, 2026. PMID: 42462921 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2026.122198