Abstract
Sorghum is known for its anti-cancer, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties, but its effect on cell growth is not well understood. First, the cytotoxicity of various sorghum extract (SE) concentrations was evaluated in C2C12 (murine myoblasts) and C3H10T1/2 (murine embryonic fibroblasts). The extent of DNA damage was then assessed, and the activation of the JAK2/STAT5b and IGF-1 pathways was observed. Studies on the transcriptional regulatory function of STAT5b revealed that SE increased STAT5b/DNA binding and transcriptional promoter activity. Consequently, STAT5b upregulation led to the increased expression of IGF-1. Moreover, other factors, such as growth hormone receptor and bone morphogenetic protein 7, were also upregulated. The results of these experiments suggest that sorghum may enhance muscle recovery or promote growth factors by stimulating the JAK2/STAT5b and IGF-1 pathways. Therefore, sorghum is expected to be an effective functional food for bone growth and muscle recovery, without inducing adverse side effects.