Microarray meta-analysis reveals comprehensive effects of 3,4,5-tricaffeolyquinic acid in cell differentiation and signaling.

Caffeoylquinic acids (CQA) are polyphenolic compounds found in fruits, vegetables, coffee, and spices that have exhibited several beneficial activities, including antioxidant, antibacterial, neuroprotective, anti-inflammatory, anticancer, antiviral, antidiabetic, and cardiovascular effects. A derivative, TCQA (3,4,5-Tri-O-caffeoylquinic acid), has also shown both neurogenic and pigment differentiation potential. A transcriptomic-based meta-analysis was conducted to explore potential biochemical processes and molecular targets of TCQA. This approach involved integrating data from various cell and tissue types, including human amniotic stem cells, human neural stem cells, human dermal papilla cells, and the brain cortex of aging model mice. It offered a comprehensive perspective on the significant gene regulations in response to TCQA treatment. The objective was to uncover the mechanism and novel targets of TCQA, facilitating a further understanding of its functions. New areas of interest found were TCQA's effect on adipogenesis, heart, and muscle tissue development. In addition, significantly enhanced biological activities found through meta-analysis included cell cycle, VEGFA-VEGFR2 pathway, and BMP signaling. Overall, a comprehensive functional and visual analysis using available biological databases uncovered the multi-target potential of this natural compound.