Turkesterone

Turkesterone is a naturally occurring phytoecdysteroid, a subclass of ecdysteroids - steroidal compounds structurally related to invertebrate molting hormones. It is predominantly found in numerous plant species including Ajuga turkestanica, various Vitex species, Triticum aestivum, Cyanotis arachnoidea and Rhaponticum acaule.

Turkesterone possesses a polyhydroxylated structure with a cyclopentanoperhydrophenanthrene skeleton, typically consisting of 27 - 30 carbon atoms and a β-oriented side chain at C17, resembling cholesterol-derived steroids. However, unlike anabolic-androgenic steroid, turkesterone does not bind to the androgen receptor. Instead, it is hypothesized to exert anabolic effects through the activation of the phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K)/AKT signaling pathway, which regulates protein synthesis, cellular growth, and muscle hypertrophy. Additionally, turkesterone has been implicated in promoting nitrogen retention, enhancing mitochondrial biogenesis of organelles, and modulating lipid and carbohydrate metabolism, contributing to improved physical performance and recovery. Its bioactivity extends beyond muscle anabolism, demonstrating adaptogenic, antioxidant, and neuroprotective properties, making it a promising candidate for therapeutic applications in stress resilience, neurodegeneration, and metabolic disorders.

Despite its potential, further research is needed to fully elucidate its pharmacokinetics, bioavailability, and long-term effects in humans.