The genus Codonopsis (Campanulaceae): a review of phytochemistry, bioactivity and quality control

Abstract

Codonopsis, in the family Campanulaceae, is a genus containing 42 species of dicotyledonous herbaceous perennial plants, predominantly found in Central, East and South Asia. Several Codonopsis species are widely used in traditional medicine and are considered to have multiple medicinal properties. Among the Codonopsis species, Codonopsis pilosula (Franch.) Nannf. and C. lanceolata (Sieb. et Zucc.) Benth. & Hook. f. ex Trautv. are more popular than others according to the findings, especially phytochemical and bioactive studies. Phytochemical research shows that Codonopsis species contain mainly polyacetylenes, phenylpropanoids, alkaloids, triterpenoids and polysaccharides, which contribute to multiple bioactivities. However, the mechanisms of their bioactivities need to be further elucidated. The less popular Codonopsis species remain to be studied and exploited. In addition, although a series of methods for the quality evaluation of Codonopsis species have been developed, a feasible and reliable approach to the efficacious and safe use of various Codonopsis species is still needed, with considering botanical origin, chemical constituents and bioactive effects. This review aims to provide up-to-date and comprehensive information on the phytochemistry, bioactivity and quality control of medicinal plants in the genus Codonopsis and to highlight current gaps in knowledge, which is useful for the wider development of the Codonopsis genus.

Absorption ofCodonopsis pilosulaSaponins by Coexisting Polysaccharides Alleviates Gut Microbial Dysbiosis with Dextran Sulfate Sodium-Induced Colitis in Model Mice

“…The representative chemicals of CPN, including polysaccharides and saponins, are thought to be responsible for most activities in plants of this genus [47]. Because previous studies have used total saponins but not monosodium saponins of CPN, it has been difficult to study the synergistic effects of polysaccharides and saponins in CPN on certain diseases.…”

Exopolysaccharides from a Codonopsis pilosula endophyte activate macrophages and inhibit cancer cell proliferation and migration

“…C. pilosula extracts are very complex, consisting of polysaccharides, saponins, sesquiterpenes, polyphenolic glycosides, alkaloids, polyacetylenes, and phytosteroids . Polysaccharides isolated from C. pilosula are one of the plant's important active constituents, with multiple biological activities, including antioxidant, anti‐cancer, and immunomodulatory properties . Given that C. pilosula endophytes are able to produce similar bioactive molecules as the plant itself, isolation and identification of C. pilosula endophytes could lead to the discovery of novel bioactive molecules.…”

Simple sequence repeat marker development fromCodonopsis lanceolataand genetic relation analysis

“…It is included in the family Campanulaceae, which has 42 species predominantly distributed in East, Central and South Asia (He et al 2015). It is highly valued as a traditional medicinal plant and a very popular vegetable in East Asia, especially, in the countries such as China, Japan and South Korea (Yoo et al 1989).…”