Bioactive constituents from toxic seed plants in China

Abstract

Toxic plants, regarded as unusual natural resources, are important sources for novel bioactive chemical entities and even new clinical drugs, and are receiving increasing attention. The present review summarizes more than 550 constituents with considerable bioactivities from about 120 toxic seed plant species in the last fifteen years (1998)(1999)(2000)(2001)(2002)(2003)(2004)(2005)(2006)(2007)(2008)(2009)(2010)(2011)(2012), as well as follow-up studies on structural modification, SAR and action mechanisms, building on the foundations of the first monograph ''Toxic plants in China'' edited by Chen and Zheng in 1987. A thorough study on bioactive constituents from toxic plants could benefit proper utilization and improve the therapeutic index. It is hoped to lay an available foundation for future drug research and development. On the other hand, bioactive constituents could be used as probes to discover new targets and explore the mysteries of organisms.

Codelivery of doxorubicin and triptolide with reduction-sensitive lipid–polymer hybrid nanoparticles for in vitro and in vivo synergistic cancer treatment

“…28 In addition, TPL was proved efficient in reducing tumor growth and prolonging the living time. [29][30][31] TPL can also enhance the activities of chemotherapeutic agents in colon carcinoma cells, myeloma cell lines, and human oral cavity squamous cell carcinoma cells. [32][33][34] As reported, the combination of TPL with other anticancer drugs resulted in synergistic effects and promoted apoptosis but did not intensify the side effects of chemotherapy.…”

Neuroprotective Dihydroagarofuran Sesquiterpene Derivatives from the Leaves of Tripterygium wilfordii

“…Tripterygium wilfordii Hook. f. (Celastraceae) has been used for the treatment of skin disorders, rheumatoid arthritis, and autoimmune diseases for centuries. − Based on the marked bioactivities of T. wilfordii , numerous studies have been carried out on this plant. Consequently, hundreds of effective substances have been acquired from this species, including diterpenoids, sesquiterpenoids, triterpenoids, and lignans. − However, the most widespread and characteristic metabolites are a large class of highly oxygenated tricyclic sesquiterpenoids known as dihydroagarofurans, which can structurally be classified into sesquiterpenoid polyesters and macrolide sesquiterpenoid pyridine alkaloids.…”

Adulteration and Contamination of Commercial Sap of Hymenaea Species

“…A plant species exhibiting toxicity can trigger tissue damage to vital organs, causing death in extreme cases due mainly to its low therapeutic index. Thus the toxicity test is an essential step during the analysis of natural products [ 35 ].…”