Tomatidine (hydrochloride)

Tomatidine (hydrochloride) (CAS No.: 6192-62-7) is a naturally derived steroidal alkaloid widely utilized in biomedical research for investigating inflammatory signaling and autophagy regulation. Originating from tomato plant tissues, this compound functions as a bioactive small molecule that modulates key cellular pathways, notably suppressing NF-κB and JNK signaling cascades, thereby reducing the expression of pro-inflammatory mediators such as inducible nitric oxide synthase and cyclooxygenase-2 in activated immune cells. In parallel, it has been shown to promote autophagic processes in both mammalian systems and model organisms such as Caenorhabditis elegans, supporting its relevance in studies of cellular homeostasis and stress responses. Additional reported activities include inhibition of acid sphingomyelinase and selective antibacterial effects against pathogenic Staphylococcus aureus variants, typically observed at low micromolar concentrations in vitro. Tomatidine (hydrochloride) is also employed in muscle physiology research due to its ability to mitigate skeletal muscle atrophy in preclinical models, and it serves as a reference compound in pathway-specific assays such as those involving Hedgehog signaling. Its versatile biological profile makes it a valuable tool in cell-based assays, mechanistic studies, and early-stage drug discovery, with experimental concentrations tailored according to specific model systems and research objectives.