Article at a glance
Using advanced proteomic technology, doTERRA scientists, along with other research partners, have examined the influence of doTERRA Copaiba essential oil on signaling pathways related to the nervous system. Although more research is needed, the initial results were encouraging as they shed more light on the use and impact of this essential oil.
Proteomics and doTERRA
Proteomics is the future of essential oil research. With modern proteomic techniques, researchers are able to discover how compounds induce changes in the proteins with which they interact. This allows us to better understand how essential oils function. Together with its research partners, doTERRA is leading the charge in mapping the activity of essential oils at the biochemical level by starting with everyone's favorite endocannabinoid system activator: Copaiba essential oil.
SH-SY5Y
Proteomics is a form of in vitro research. In vitro methods are often used in scientific research because they are simple and convenient, have fewer ethical concerns and allow for more detailed analyses than on a whole organism. One of the most common cell lines (a series of cells developed from a single cell with an identical genetic makeup) used in in vitro research is SH-SY5Y. This cell line is especially beneficial for experimental neurological research.
The study
In a recently published proteomic study, doTERRA scientists and research partners evaluated the biological activity of Copaiba essential oil on signaling pathways in an SH-SY5Y cell line. In this study, they used nanofluidic protein post-translational modification (PTM) profiling technologies. The same research team had previously used PTM profiling technologies to assess the purity of essential oils and related isolates.
The results
The study provided robust evidence that Copaiba essential oil positively affects several pathways in the cells of the central nervous system. Positive regulation was particularly robust in the pI3k/Akt/mTOR, MAPK and JAK/STAT pathways, which affect metabolism, proliferation and immunity of nervous system cells. Also, the effects of Copaiba on neuronal signaling pathway activity was mediated by the cannabinoid receptor 2 (CB2), providing further validation for the belief that Copaiba is a potent activator of the endocannabinoid system and may have a spectrum of benefits yet to be discovered. Moreover, the researchers saw the greatest effects on signaling pathways within 30 minutes of exposure to Copaiba. This is important pharmacokinetic information that can be used to develop future use guidelines. While these findings are encouraging, they are experimental and more research will be needed to validate them.
The future
While on the surface these data may not mean much to the everyday essential oil user, they are part of the foundation that will define the future of oil research and help us develop new and more effective models of use for these gifts of the earth. This research team has several other proteomic studies in the works that will expand our understanding of the pharmacodynamics of Copaiba and other essential oils.
doTERRA Science blog articles are based on a variety of scientific sources. Many of the studies referenced are preliminary, experimental studies, and further research is needed to further understand the findings. Essential oils may have drug interactions, patient contraindications or side effects that cannot be evaluated using experimental research results alone. If you are interested in using essential oils for any health problem, consult your health care provider first.