Planta Med. [JOURNAL]
Sun
200 papers
Biotransformation of Two Guaiane-type Sesquiterpene Lactones with Filamentous Fungi and Extremophile Bacteria.
Furque GI, Casero CN, Kurina-Sanz M … +4 more , Nieto-Peñalver CG, Farias ME, Padrón JM, Nicotra VE
Planta Med · 2026 May · PMID 41558512 · Publisher ↗
There is an urgent need for new naturally occurring and/or naturally derived chemical structures for drug development. The biotransformation of two bioactive guaiane-type sesquiterpene lactones, ludartin and estafietin,...
There is an urgent need for new naturally occurring and/or naturally derived chemical structures for drug development. The biotransformation of two bioactive guaiane-type sesquiterpene lactones, ludartin and estafietin, by filamentous fungi of the genera and and by extremophile bacteria of the genera , and led to the isolation of three new and four known derivatives. The structures were determined based on data obtained from HRESIMS and 1D/2D NMR spectroscopy. The predominant reactions from both eukaryotic and prokaryotic biocatalysts were stereoselective epoxide opening and chemical and regio- and stereoselective double bond reduction, though the fungi were more efficient than the bacteria. Substrates and six selected metabolites were subjected to evaluation for antiproliferative effects against six human solid tumor cell lines. The derivative 3,4-dihydroxy-estafietin showed significant activity against HBL-100, HeLa, and SW1573 cell lines, justifying a more specific, in-depth evaluation of its scope as an anticancer candidate molecule.
Genotoxicity Studies of Milk Thistle Fruit (Silybum marianum fructus) Dry Extracts: No Hints of Mutagenicity.
Ringel PD, Feistel B, Kelber O … +1 more , Nieber K
Planta Med · 2026 May · PMID 41534860 · Publisher ↗
Herbal medicinal products (HMPs) prepared from the fruit of are mainly used in the treatment of liver diseases and dyspeptic symptoms. Despite its long-standing use and good clinical safety profile, the safety assessmen...
Herbal medicinal products (HMPs) prepared from the fruit of are mainly used in the treatment of liver diseases and dyspeptic symptoms. Despite its long-standing use and good clinical safety profile, the safety assessment of such HMPs requires special attention to toxicological aspects that are difficult to detect clinically, especially genotoxic effects. The genotoxic potential of certain extracts has been evaluated previously; however, some assays gave inconsistent results, which is why an EU list entry was not recommended by the Herbal Medicinal Product Committee (HMPC) of the European regulatory agency EMA. To provide a more comprehensive dataset for the evaluation of the genotoxic potential, six dry extracts covering the entire polarity range of extraction solvents were chosen in accordance with the "bracketing and matrixing" approach recommended by the HMPC. These extracts were subjected to the bacterial reverse mutation test, as specified in the OECD test guideline 471, which was performed both as a pre-incubation and plate incorporation assay. When testing up to 5 mg per plate or up to the solubility or cytotoxicity limits, none of the extracts showed signs of mutagenicity, suggesting that extracts of fruit have no genotoxic potential. Within reasonable limits, these results may be extrapolated to other extracts based on the aforementioned "bracketing and matrixing" approach.
Dioscorea bulbifera: Phytotherapeutic Potential and Toxicological Risks, A Critical Review.
Mathew E, Thomas PL, Mathew L
Planta Med · 2026 Feb · PMID 41461207 · Publisher ↗
Dioscorea bulbifera (air potato), a climbing perennial of the Dioscoreaceae family, is widely distributed in tropical regions and valued in Ayurveda, Traditional Chinese Medicine, and African ethnomedicine for managing i...
Dioscorea bulbifera (air potato), a climbing perennial of the Dioscoreaceae family, is widely distributed in tropical regions and valued in Ayurveda, Traditional Chinese Medicine, and African ethnomedicine for managing inflammatory, infectious, metabolic, and neoplastic disorders. This systematic review critically evaluates its phytochemistry, pharmacology, and toxicology. Primary metabolites contribute to its nutritional value, whereas secondary metabolites-predominantly steroidal saponins, flavonoids, and diterpenoids from bulbils and tubers-underlie its wide range of reported bioactivities. African accessions are rich in clerodane diterpenoids, while Asian ones are rich in saponins and flavonoids, underscoring the need for comparative metabolomic and chemotaxonomic studies.Preclinical studies confirm antiproliferative, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, antidiabetic, and neuroprotective effects. However, furanoid diterpenoids, particularly diosbulbin B and 8-epidiosbulbin E acetate, have been shown to induce hepatotoxicity, with additional risks of nephrotoxicity, cardiotoxicity, gastrointestinal irritation, and thyroid dysfunction. Traditional processing methods, such as boiling and roasting, as well as co-administration with protective herbs, mitigate toxicity. Despite promising activity, clinical translation remains hindered by phytochemical variability, non-standardised preparations, and the complete absence of human trials. Future research should therefore focus on developing detoxified, standardised extracts supported by pharmacokinetic studies and well-designed randomised controlled trials to establish D. bulbifera as a safe and effective phytotherapeutic agent.
Impact of Antioxidant Mangosteen on Clinical and Biochemical Parameters of Periodontitis-A Systematic Review.
Estornut C, Flacco N, Estornut S … +1 more , Pérez-Leal M
Planta Med · 2026 Jun · PMID 41461206 · Publisher ↗
ABSTRACT: Periodontitis is a common chronic inflammatory disease that leads to the progressive destruction of periodontal tissues. Traditional treatments focus on mechanical debridement; however, antioxidants are increas...
ABSTRACT: Periodontitis is a common chronic inflammatory disease that leads to the progressive destruction of periodontal tissues. Traditional treatments focus on mechanical debridement; however, antioxidants are increasingly being considered as adjuvant therapies to improve clinical outcomes. Mangosteen ( L.), a tropical fruit and chemically characterized natural source of xanthones, exhibits potent antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial properties, making it a promising candidate in phytotherapeutic periodontal interventions. ABSTRACT: This systematic review aimed to assess the clinical and biochemical effects of mangosteen-based treatments in patients with periodontitis, compared to placebo or conventional therapies. ABSTRACT: Following PRISMA guidelines, a comprehensive search was conducted in PubMed, Web of Science, and Scopus. Eligible studies included randomized controlled trials, cohort studies, and clinical trials that evaluated the effects of mangosteen on periodontal parameters-probing pocket depth (PPD), plaque index (PI), gingival index (GI), clinical attachment level (CAL), and bleeding on probing (BOP)-as well as biochemical markers such as IL-6, TNF-, MMP-8, MMP-9, total antioxidant capacity (TAOC), and oxidative stress indicators. ABSTRACT: Ten studies met the inclusion criteria, involving 422 patients. The use of 4% mangosteen gel as an adjuvant to scaling and root planing (SRP) showed significant clinical improvements in PPD, GI, CAL, and BOP. Biochemically, reductions in IL-6 and MMP-9 and increased TAOC were observed. However, heterogeneity in formulations and methodologies limited comparability.
Threo-2,3-bis-(4-hydroxy-3-methoxyphenyl)-3-methoxypropanol (THMP) Inhibits Bladder Cancer Cell Proliferation via Oxidative Stress-dependent Apoptosis and DNA Damage.
Yang CW, Chen CY, Yen CH … +3 more , Shu CW, Lee HY, Chang HW
Planta Med · 2026 Apr · PMID 41360103 · Publisher ↗
Many lignans exhibit antiproliferative effects against cancer cells, but it is rarely reported for -2,3-bis-(4-hydroxy-3-methoxyphenyl)-3-methoxypropanol (THMP), an edible red-pepper-derived lignan. This study evaluates...
Many lignans exhibit antiproliferative effects against cancer cells, but it is rarely reported for -2,3-bis-(4-hydroxy-3-methoxyphenyl)-3-methoxypropanol (THMP), an edible red-pepper-derived lignan. This study evaluates the antiproliferative effects and mechanism of THMP against bladder cancer cells (BFTC905 and T24) regarding ATP content and flow cytometry assays in parallel with the presence and absence of -acetylcysteine (NAC), an oxidative stress inhibitor. THMP suppressed bladder cancer cell viability in the ATP assay, which was reverted by NAC. Regarding flow cytometry, THMP triggered subG1 arrest and enhanced annexin V-affinity intensity. This apoptotic response was further supported by the finding that THMP upregulated the activation of caspases 3, 8, and 9, which is apoptotic signaling. Moreover, oxidative stress was induced by THMP regarding the upregulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and mitochondrial superoxide and the exhaustion of glutathione and mitochondrial membrane potential. Regarding H2AX and 8-hydroxy-2-deoxyguanosine detection, THMP was confirmed to have DNA damage ability. These mechanisms were alleviated by NAC. Overall, THMP is the first report demonstrating the antiproliferative effect against bladder cancer cells and clarifying its oxidative stress-dependent mechanisms.
Effect of Scutellarin on the Pharmacokinetics and Pharmacodynamics of Warfarin in Rats.
Sun J, Qin M, Wei L … +4 more , Shi X, Shao B, Liu G, Yang C
Planta Med · 2026 Apr · PMID 41360102 · Publisher ↗
The study aims to investigate the pharmacodynamics and pharmacokinetics to elucidate the mechanism of enhanced anticoagulant effect of scutellarin and its preparations on warfarin. Evaluation of pharmacodynamic effects i...
The study aims to investigate the pharmacodynamics and pharmacokinetics to elucidate the mechanism of enhanced anticoagulant effect of scutellarin and its preparations on warfarin. Evaluation of pharmacodynamic effects is undertaken by measuring coagulation parameters prothrombin time (PT) and activated partial thromboplastin time (APTT). The UHPLC-ESI-MS/MS method is used to determine the plasma concentrations of R/S-warfarin to investigate the influence on the pharmacokinetics. Changes in the plasma protein binding rate of warfarin is studied by ultrafiltration. The results of pharmacodynamics showed that there was no significant difference in PT, international normalized ratio (INR), and APTT between the scutellarin control and the blank control group. Compared to the warfarin control group, scutellarin co-administered with the warfarin group has a significant increase in PT and INR after 8 h, and APTT had no change. The pharmacokinetic results showed that there was an increase in peak concentration ( ) and area under curve ( and ) and a significant prolongation of half time ( ) and a decrease in apparent clearance (/) of R-warfarin compared with the warfarin control group. Compared with the warfarin group, the protein binding rates were decreased in all doses of scutellarin co-administered with the warfarin groups, respectively. Scutellarin can enhance the anticoagulant effect of warfarin by both inhibition of the R-warfarin metabolism and reduction in the protein binding rate of warfarin.
Caffeoylquinic Acids from Aster tataricus Leaves Inhibit Aldose Reductase and Attenuate Hyaloid-Retinal Vasodilation in a Zebrafish Model of Hyperglycemia.
Lee IS, Jung SH, Kim YS
Planta Med · 2026 Feb · PMID 41218647 · Publisher ↗
Diabetic retinopathy (DR) is a leading cause of blindness, and its pathogenesis is strongly linked to the activation of aldose reductase (AR) under hyperglycemic conditions. Developing effective AR inhibitors (ARIs), par...
Diabetic retinopathy (DR) is a leading cause of blindness, and its pathogenesis is strongly linked to the activation of aldose reductase (AR) under hyperglycemic conditions. Developing effective AR inhibitors (ARIs), particularly from natural sources, remains a critical therapeutic goal. This study investigated the AR inhibitory potential of an 80% ethanol extract from the leaves of . Using UPLC-Q-Orbitrap-MS, we identified 11 major compounds, with caffeoylquinic acids (CQAs) being predominant. assays on rat lens aldose reductase (RLAR) revealed that di-caffeoylquinic acids (di-CQAs), particularly 3,5-di-O-caffeoylquinic acid (3,5-DCQA; IC = 0.31 µM), were potent noncompetitive inhibitors. Molecular docking simulations provided insights into their binding modes within the enzyme. The therapeutic relevance of these findings was confirmed using a larval zebrafish model of hyperglycemia, where both the extract and its constituent CQAs significantly suppressed hyaloid-retinal vessel dilation without inducing toxicity. Quantitative HPLC analysis confirmed that 3,5-DCQA was the most abundant di-CQA in the extract. These findings establish the CQA constituents of leaves as promising natural product leads for developing therapeutics to manage early-stage diabetic retinopathy.
Genotoxicity Assessment of Hypericum perforatum Dry Extracts in the Ames Test Based on the "Bracketing and Matrixing" Concept.
Flade J, Kelber O, Nieber K … +1 more , Feistel B
Planta Med · 2026 May · PMID 41218646 · Publisher ↗
HMPs derived from , herba (St. John's wort) play an important role in treating mild to moderate depressive episodes and mental exhaustion, for example. The genotoxic safety of these HMPs has already been assessed and rev...
HMPs derived from , herba (St. John's wort) play an important role in treating mild to moderate depressive episodes and mental exhaustion, for example. The genotoxic safety of these HMPs has already been assessed and reviewed in recent years. However, further data on the genotoxic potential of , herba preparations would allow the evaluation of the therapeutic safety of the herbal drug and preparations thereof in accordance with the genotoxicity guideline of the HMPC of the EMA. Accordingly, their genotoxic potential was tested using the "bracketing and matrixing" concept, whereby extracts are tested at and between the extremes of their extraction solvents (ranging in strength from polar to non-polar) to cover the entire spectrum of the drug's constituents. In the present study, five dry extracts of , herba, representing the full range of potential extraction solvent polarities (water, ethanol 50% (v/v), methanol 80% (v/v), ethanol 80% (v/v), and -heptane) were tested using the Ames test, according to the OECD and HMPC guidelines. No mutagenic effects were observed for any of the five test strains in two independent experiments (plate incorporation test and pre-incubation test) each carried out with and without metabolic activation, even at the highest concentrations (5000 µg/plate), in accordance with the OECD guideline No. 471.
Kaempferol Promotes Vasorelaxation via KV 2.1 Channel Modulation in the Coronary Arteries of Sheep.
Bhati A, Gaur A, Sharma P … +6 more , Sharma P, Purva K, Singh D, Kant L, Gaur S, Pandey AK
Planta Med · 2026 Apr · PMID 41218645 · Publisher ↗
Kaempferol, a flavonol found in various edible and medicinal plants, possesses antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and cardioprotective properties. The vasorelaxant effects of kaempferol were assessed using isolated coronary...
Kaempferol, a flavonol found in various edible and medicinal plants, possesses antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and cardioprotective properties. The vasorelaxant effects of kaempferol were assessed using isolated coronary artery rings pre-contracted with potassium chloride (30 mM). Kaempferol induced a concentration-dependent relaxation in both endothelium-intact and endothelium-denuded coronary artery rings pre-contracted with potassium chloride (30 mM), indicating that its vasorelaxant effect is primarily endothelium-independent. Inhibition of nitric oxide synthase (NOS) with L-NAME (100 µM) and cyclooxygenase (COX) with indomethacin (10 µM) did not significantly alter the relaxation response, suggesting that nitric oxide (NO) and prostaglandins play a minimal role. The BK channel blocker TEA (1 mM), ATP-sensitive potassium (K) channel blocker glibenclamide (10 µM), and inward-rectifier potassium (K) channel blocker BaCl (30 µM) did not significantly affect kaempferol-induced relaxation. However, inhibition with the voltage-gated potassium (K) channel blocker 4-aminopyridine (3 mM) significantly reduced the relaxation response, indicating the involvement of K channels. Furthermore, molecular analysis using RT-PCR confirmed the presence of the K 2.1 () gene in sheep coronary arteries, suggesting its role in kaempferol-mediated vasorelaxation. These findings suggest that kaempferol promotes vasorelaxation through an endothelium-independent mechanism, with partial involvement of the K 2.1 channel. This study supports kaempferol's therapeutic potential in cardiovascular disease, recommending its dietary inclusion as a strategy to lower the risk of cardiovascular diseases.
Nyctanthes arbor-tristis: A Multifaceted Medicinal Plant in Traditional and Contemporary Medicine.
Aggarwal A, Mehta DK, Bhardwaj A … +1 more , Das R
Planta Med · 2026 Apr · PMID 41213599 · Publisher ↗
, commonly known as night-flowering jasmine or parijat, is a plant of notable importance in traditional medicine and cultural practices. It is characterized by its nocturnally blooming, fragrant flowers. Traditional medi...
, commonly known as night-flowering jasmine or parijat, is a plant of notable importance in traditional medicine and cultural practices. It is characterized by its nocturnally blooming, fragrant flowers. Traditional medicinal systems have extensively utilized this species for its therapeutic properties, which modern clinical research has supported. This plant, renowned for its therapeutic potential, has been integral to folk medicine for addressing antibilious conditions, gynecological disorders, and liver protection, highlighting its historical significance.This review aims to conduct a comprehensive ethnopharmacological evaluation of , with a focus on its chemical composition and pharmacological properties. It seeks to explore its therapeutic potential while identifying gaps requiring further scientific investigation.The review draws on data from credible sources such as PubMed, Google Scholar, and related literature published from 2013 to 2024 using keywords such as , night-flowering jasmine, sorrow plant, harsingar, harasingaar, pavazha mattigai, paarijaata, parijathak, and parijatha.The literature reveals that contains several phytoconstituents, including steroids, terpenes, flavonoids, phenols, iridoid glycosides, and alkaloids. These compounds, distributed across its leaves, seeds, flowers, and stem bark, exhibit distinct pharmacological activities. Reported effects include anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidant, analgesic, anti-diabetic, anti-arthritic, cytotoxic, anti-microbial, anti-malarial, anthelmintic, larvicidal, bronchodilatory, hepatoprotective, immunomodulatory, neuroprotective, and wound healing activities. This plant is also widely recognized for its traditional uses and is used by various countries and communities for the treatment of sciatica, arthritis, fever, liver disorders, and parasitic infections. Additionally, various parts, such as leaves, roots, bark, and seeds, are used across cultures for their dermatological effects, sedative properties, and antispasmodic actions. Despite its potential, the existing pharmacological and phytochemical data remain insufficient, necessitating further research to understand its mechanisms of action and therapeutic applications.With its diverse bioactive compounds, shows promise as a source of natural therapeutics. However, comprehensive studies are essential to validate its ethnomedicinal applications and understand its mechanisms of action. Such efforts could facilitate the development of effective, low-side-effect natural therapeutic products, addressing a growing demand for alternative medicines in contemporary healthcare.
Exploring the Genus Ruta: Traditional Uses, Pharmacology, and Safety Concerns.
Adel-Mehraban MS, Elahi AH, Esmaealzadeh N … +3 more , Mirali Z, Zaidi SMA, Bahramsoltani R
Planta Med · 2026 May · PMID 41213598 · Publisher ↗
Rue ( spp.) is a medicinal, ornamental, and culinary herb, distinguished by its strong repellent aroma, rich in various bioactive compounds. In addition to different traditional uses, rue shows anti-inflammatory, antican...
Rue ( spp.) is a medicinal, ornamental, and culinary herb, distinguished by its strong repellent aroma, rich in various bioactive compounds. In addition to different traditional uses, rue shows anti-inflammatory, anticancer, antiviral, and antifungal properties. Thus, we aimed to comprehensively review the past and present roles of spp. in the management of diseases. Accordingly, we systematically reviewed PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, and Cochrane Library with relevant keywords for ethnopharmacological, pharmacological, pre-clinical, clinical, and toxicological studies to evaluate the efficacy and safety of rue, in addition to its traditional applications. In traditional Indian and Persian Medicine, rue is mostly utilized for tonifying the stomach, managing neural complications, and regulating the menstrual cycle. Ethnopharmacological studies indicated that all parts of rue are used in more than 15 countries for different purposes such as for the diseases of respiratory system, urinary system, gastrointestinal system, and nervous system. In preclinical studies, spp. are examined in the management of neurologic disorders, endocrine and metabolic disorders, gastrointestinal disorders, and neuropsychologic disorders. Human studies mainly included homeopathic formulations in musculoskeletal disorders, oncology, ophthalmology, obesity, and gynecology. Although spp. show antioxidant effects, their systemic toxicity, cytotoxicity, and photosensitivity effects may be related to the bioactive compounds such as xanthotoxin, psoralenes, and bergapten in high doses. In conclusion, in the usual dose that is used, rue showed the potential of managing different health problems; however, more clinical studies are required.
Plant-derived Bioactive Substances with Anti-rheumatoid Arthritis Properties.
Jiang H, Sun Z, Zhao X … +8 more , Wei Y, Ma X, Tang A, Wang Y, Li J, Bi X, Zhou H, Yang Z
Planta Med · 2026 Apr · PMID 41187767 · Publisher ↗
Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic systemic autoimmune disease characterized by the accumulation of synovial fluid in joints, synovial inflammation, and cartilage damage. With the development of the disease, it may result...
Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic systemic autoimmune disease characterized by the accumulation of synovial fluid in joints, synovial inflammation, and cartilage damage. With the development of the disease, it may result in joint deformity, which affects the normal joint function of patients and seriously endangers people's life and health. According to statistics, the incidence of rheumatoid arthritis increases with age. However, there is currently no drug that can completely cure rheumatoid arthritis; only through certain drugs and measures can the progression of the disease be delayed. Plant-derived bioactive substances have garnered extensive research attention for their therapeutic potential in treating various diseases. Studies have shown that plant-derived bioactive substances play an important role in preventing rheumatoid arthritis. This review comprehensively and systematically evaluates plant-derived bioactive substances with anti-arthritic properties, specifically focusing on bioactive substances including flavonoids, polyphenols, terpenes, alkaloids, phenols, quinones, and phenylpropanoids, and elucidates their mechanisms of action to provide reference for the prevention and treatment of rheumatoid arthritis.
Impact of Different Drying Methods on Magnolia officinalis Leaves.
Lan XM, Yang XH, Li JQ … +4 more , Xue ZZ, Yang RP, Li H, Yang B
Planta Med · 2026 Feb · PMID 41187766 · Publisher ↗
Different drying techniques can affect the quality characteristics of leaves (MOLs), including their chemical composition, color, and biological activity. This study comprehensively evaluated five drying methods: vacuum...
Different drying techniques can affect the quality characteristics of leaves (MOLs), including their chemical composition, color, and biological activity. This study comprehensively evaluated five drying methods: vacuum drying (VD), hot-air drying (HAD), freeze drying (FD), sun drying (SD), and shade drying (SHD). The non-volatile and volatile constituents of MOLs were analyzed by high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS), respectively. Objective color parameters were measured using an electronic eye, and the antioxidant activity was evaluated by the DPPH (1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl) radical scavenging assay. Additionally, the moisture content and the alcohol-soluble extract content were determined. Results indicated that HAD had the least impact on the color, chemical composition, and antioxidant activity of MOLs, thereby demonstrating its superiority over the other four drying methods.
Effect of Herbal Products and Their Active Constituents on Angiogenesis in Diabetic Wounds.
Herman A
Planta Med · 2026 Apr · PMID 41167591 · Publisher ↗
Angiogenesis plays a key role in tissue regeneration by delivering oxygen and nutrients to the injury site. In diabetes mellitus, various factors, including hyperglycemia, neuropathy, increased reactive oxygen species, a...
Angiogenesis plays a key role in tissue regeneration by delivering oxygen and nutrients to the injury site. In diabetes mellitus, various factors, including hyperglycemia, neuropathy, increased reactive oxygen species, and proinflammatory cytokines, decrease the levels of proangiogenic factors and increase levels of antiangiogenic factors, hamper angiogenesis, and hinder wound healing. Reconstruction of the vasculature of the wound bed is crucial for promoting diabetic wound healing and improving the quality of life of patients. Given the urgent need for innovative therapies to promote angiogenesis and accelerate the repair of diabetic wounds, researchers have increasingly focused on identifying herbal products and their active constituents with promising proangiogenic activity.The aim of this review is to present verified data on the current knowledge on the effect of herbal products and their active constituents on angiogenesis processes in diabetic wounds.The electronic databases were searched for articles published from 2014 to the present. The 38 articles comparing topically used herbal products/active constituents on angiogenesis in diabetic wound healing treatment versus control treatments (placebo or active therapy) were selected.Herbal products and their active constituents are rich sources of novel angio-modulators that may affect the angiogenesis process in diabetic wound healing via different mechanisms of action, including stimulation of VEGF and HRMs and activation of the Nrf2, PI3K/AKT, and HIF-1 signaling pathways. Topical applications of herbal products and their active constituents, especially when incorporated into wound dressings, show promising proangiogenic activity and represent a potential alternative for the treatment of diabetic wounds.
Unveiling Rosmarinic Acid: Understanding Its Broad Spectrum of Bioactivities.
Leong KF, Chen Z, Coghi P
Planta Med · 2026 Feb · PMID 41161308 · Publisher ↗
Rosmarinic acid (RA) is a polyphenolic compound with various biological activities found in numerous traditional medicinal plants. Moreover, RA is already used as a food additive, demonstrating its safety. Current resear...
Rosmarinic acid (RA) is a polyphenolic compound with various biological activities found in numerous traditional medicinal plants. Moreover, RA is already used as a food additive, demonstrating its safety. Current research has identified RA as having diverse effects, including sedative, hypnotic, antiepileptic, anti-Parkinson, neuroprotective, antidepressant, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, cognitive-enhancing, metabolic-regulating, antimicrobial, and antitumor properties. Nevertheless, the mechanisms underlying these effects remain incompletely understood. This review attempts to define the mechanisms of its bioactivity by correlating RA's effect on different biomolecules. We performed an extensive search across major databases, using the core keyword "Rosmarinic acid" with relevant keywords to construct search queries. Our findings suggest that some mechanisms are shared among RA's various activities. For example, the chemical structure of RA itself makes it an antioxidant, and the antioxidant effect enables it to reduce inflammation caused by active substances such as ROS and free radicals. Its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects can relieve pain, provide neuroprotection, reduce chronic adipose inflammation, and improve insulin sensitivity. RA can also inhibit the aggregation of harmful proteins and promote their degradation, which plays a key role in neuroprotection and cognitive improvement. RA's modulation of neurotransmitters exerts both antidepressant effects and benefits on cognitive impairment. The regulation of key pathways by RA-such as ERK1/2, MAPK, STAT3, PI3K, Akt, NF-B, and Nrf2-is central to its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, lipid- and glucose-regulating, and antitumor effects.
NMR Chemical Shifts of Common Flavonoids.
Kulić Ž, Steiner VJN, Butterer A
Planta Med · 2026 Jan · PMID 41161307 · Full text
We present H and C nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) chemical shifts for the most common flavonoids, a class of natural products widely present in the plant kingdom. Our data are acquired in three common NMR solvents: met...
We present H and C nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) chemical shifts for the most common flavonoids, a class of natural products widely present in the plant kingdom. Our data are acquired in three common NMR solvents: methanol d, dimethyl sulfoxide d, and pyridine d and may be used as a reference for isolated compounds, for detecting flavonoids within mixtures like plant extracts as shown in an example, as reference data for natural product databases, for refined training of prediction software, and for machine learning in resonance assignment and NMR-based structure elucidation. Solvent- and substitution-induced resonance shifts are discussed.
Involvement of the NO-cGMP-K Channels Pathway in Cardioprotective Effects of Baccharis milleflora in Hypertensive Rats.
Klider LM, Marques AAM, Moreno KGT … +9 more , da Silva GP, Bertoncello LA, Pessoa LB, Dos Santos AC, Farias KS, Costa CM, Silva DB, Manfron J, Gasparotto Junior A
Planta Med · 2026 Jan · PMID 41161306 · Publisher ↗
Cardiovascular diseases are the leading causes of deaths worldwide. Complementary therapies, such as medicinal plants, have become increasingly common among treatment options. We propose to investigate the cardioprotecti...
Cardiovascular diseases are the leading causes of deaths worldwide. Complementary therapies, such as medicinal plants, have become increasingly common among treatment options. We propose to investigate the cardioprotective effects of the ethanol-soluble fraction obtained from the aerial parts of in hypertensive rats. Cladodes of were collected, and the aqueous extract was obtained by infusion. The infusion was then treated with ethanol, resulting in the ethanol-soluble fraction of , which was analyzed by LC-DAD-MS. The MS and MS/MS data obtained from the ethanol-soluble fraction of was submitted to the Global Natural Products Social Molecular Networking platform to generate the molecular network, and three main clusters were detected. Wistar-Kyoto and spontaneously hypertensive rats were divided into different experimental groups, including naïve, control (vehicle), hydrochlorothiazide (25 mg/kg), and ethanol-soluble fraction of (30, 100, and 300 mg/kg). The treatment lasted for 28 days. At the end of the treatment, the animals underwent evaluation of renal function, electrocardiographic profile, blood pressure, mesenteric vascular reactivity, serum biochemical parameters, and histopathological analysis. The molecular pathways involved in pharmacological activity were also investigated. After 28 days, animals treated with ethanol-soluble fraction of 30 mg/kg showed a significant antioxidant, diuretic, and antihypertensive response, as well as reversed endothelial dysfunction and left ventricular hypertrophy induced by hypertension. Treatment with a non-selective NO synthase inhibitor, cGMP inhibitor, or non-selective K+ channel blocker suppressed the antihypertensive effects of ethanol-soluble fraction of . Our findings showed that is a species with cardioprotective activity when administered for a prolonged period to hypertensive rats.
Active Components and Multi-target Mechanism of Tibetan Sinopodophyllum hexandrum Medicine Against Rheumatoid Arthritis Using a CFA-induced Arthritis Rat Model.
Wang BL, Qiu H, Ao JG … +8 more , Du WP, Li C, Fan HR, Qian JQ, Zou B, He JK, Zhang WF, Hu XL
Planta Med · 2026 Feb · PMID 41115426 · Publisher ↗
("Taoerqi") is a traditional Tibetan medicine used for treating inflammation and arthralgia, but its therapeutic basis against rheumatoid arthritis (RA) remains unclear. This study aimed to identify its active anti-RA fr...
("Taoerqi") is a traditional Tibetan medicine used for treating inflammation and arthralgia, but its therapeutic basis against rheumatoid arthritis (RA) remains unclear. This study aimed to identify its active anti-RA fraction, analyse its chemical composition, and explore its mechanisms of action. Using a CFA-induced arthritis rat model, the dichloromethane fraction of (SHD) was evaluated for anti-RA activity. UHPLC-Q-TOF-MS/MS identified 57 compounds, mainly prenylated flavonoids and arylnaphthalene lignans. Network pharmacology predicted their targets, and assays on TNF--induced fibroblast-like synoviocytes confirmed the anti-RA effects of 15 isolates. Enzyme inhibition, molecular docking, surface plasmon resonance, and Western blot validated their interactions with TNF- and JAK1. Oral administration of SHD significantly reduced paw swelling and neutrophil infiltration in RA rats. These findings suggest that prenylated flavonoids and arylnaphthalene lignans are key active components exerting anti-RA effects, respectively, via TNF- and JAK1 inhibition, highlighting their potential for further drug development.
Phytochemicals as Radioprotective and Radiosensitizing Agents in Cancer Radiotherapy: Advances, Challenges, and Future Perspectives.
Dweh TJ, Taye M, Deka D … +2 more , Samanta SK, Talukdar NC
Planta Med · 2026 Jan · PMID 41086865 · Publisher ↗
Radiation therapy (RT) remains a fundament of cancer treatment, yet its effectiveness is often hindered by normal tissue toxicity and radiation-induced fibrosis. Recent research has highlighted the promise of bioactive-p...
Radiation therapy (RT) remains a fundament of cancer treatment, yet its effectiveness is often hindered by normal tissue toxicity and radiation-induced fibrosis. Recent research has highlighted the promise of bioactive-phytochemicals in enhancing the therapeutic index of RT-sensitizing tumor cells to radiation while safeguarding healthy tissues. This reflects a growing interest in integrating natural compounds with conventional cancer therapies to achieve synergistic effects. To summarize recent advances, identify the research gaps, and evaluate future directions, a comprehensive review was conducted using data from the NCBI and PubChem databases, focusing on preclinical and clinical studies exploring the role of phytochemicals in cancer radiotherapy. The findings stated that the phytochemicals such as curcumin, resveratrol, quercetin, genistein, and EGCG have been shown to sensitize cancer cells to radiation by amplifying DNA damage, promoting apoptosis, and inhibiting key signaling pathways including PI3K/Akt, ATM, and NF-B. Simultaneously, these compounds exhibit protective effects on normal tissues by activating antioxidant responses (e.g., Nrf2/ARE), reducing oxidative stress, and alleviating radiation-induced fibrosis through modulation of CTGF and TGF- pathways. Emerging agents like astilbin, puerarin, and isorhamnetin have also demonstrated notable radiosensitizing and antifibrotic potential. However, challenges such as poor bioavailability, dose inconsistencies, and patient-specific variability remain significant barriers to clinical translation. In conclusion, the dual context-dependent actions of phytochemicals emphasize the need for personalized therapeutic strategies, optimized dosing, and advanced delivery systems. Furthermore, integrating nanotechnology may hold particular promise for enhancing the precision and effectiveness of phytochemical-based interventions in radiation oncology.
Moutan Cortex: A Review of Origins, Phytochemical Characterization Strategies, and Anti-fibrosis-related Pharmacological Mechanisms and Applications.
Zheng W, Li Y, Wu X … +1 more , Yuan L
Planta Med · 2026 Apr · PMID 41082904 · Publisher ↗
Traditional medicine has long acknowledged the therapeutic effects of Moutan cortex (MC), derived from the dried root bark of the tree peony. In recent times, scientific investigations have shed light on its bioactive co...
Traditional medicine has long acknowledged the therapeutic effects of Moutan cortex (MC), derived from the dried root bark of the tree peony. In recent times, scientific investigations have shed light on its bioactive components and the mechanisms underlying its health-promoting effects. Here, we review the origin of MC, encompassing its worldwide resource distribution, plant morphological characteristics, and medicinal values. Additionally, a multi-dimensional analysis is carried out on the present research strategies concerning the components of MC, aiming to provide insights into the identification of the active components in MC. Simultaneously, this article focuses on the anti-fibrotic pharmacological mechanisms of the two crucial active components, paeonol and paeoniflorin, derived from MC. We comprehensively summarize the multiple mechanisms and pathways through which these components exhibit anti-fibrotic actions within specific pathological sites. Moreover, it reviews the advancements in patents and clinical research associated with paeonol and paeoniflorin, emphasizing their substantial potential for translational applications. Elucidating the key active components derived from MC and their pharmacological mechanisms holds critical scientific and practical value across multiple fields.
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