Abstract

Oxidative stress accelerates aging and contributes to various degenerative diseases. Amaranthus tricolor (red spinach) is known for its strong antioxidant properties. However, its cellular mechanisms in modulating aging remain unclear. This study utilized the fission yeast Schizosaccharomyces pombe as a model to evaluate the protective and pro-longevity effects of ethanol-derived A. tricolor leaf extract. Treatment with 49 μg/ml extract enhanced yeast survival under H2O2-induced oxidative stress and extended chronological lifespan compared to untreated and calorie-restriction controls. The extract also increased mitochondrial membrane potential (ΔΨm), as assessed by Rhodamine staining. Flow cytometry revealed an elevated proportion of cells in the G0/G1 phase, indicating delayed cell cycle progression. Gene expression analysis showed upregulation of aging-related (sir2+) and oxidative stress-response genes (sod2+, ctt1+). Liquid chromatography-high resolution mass spectrometry profiling identified major metabolites, including (2E)-3-(3,4-dimethoxyphenyl)acrylic acid, 2-O-caffeoylglucaric acid, and (10E,15Z)-9,12,13-trihydroxy-10,15- octadecadienoic acid. Overall, the findings demonstrate that A. tricolor extract enhances oxidative stress resistance and promotes cellular longevity in yeast, supporting its potential as a natural source for nutraceutical development.

Key words: Amaranthus tricolor, Antiaging, Antioxidant, Mitochondria, Schizosaccharomyces pombe