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Boswellic acids: a group of medicinally important compounds
Bhahwal Ali Shah1, Ghulam Nabi Qazi, Subhash Chandra Taneja
1Indian Institute of Integrative Medicine (CSIR), Canal Road, Jammu Tawi, 180001, India.
Natural Product Reports
|April 21, 2009
Summary
Boswellic acids, known for anti-inflammatory effects, show promising anti-cancer activities. This review details their chemistry, bioactivity, and mechanisms, including 5-LO inhibition.
Area of Science:
- Natural Product Chemistry
- Pharmacology
- Medicinal Chemistry
Background:
- Boswellic acids are triterpenoids with established anti-inflammatory and anti-arthritic properties.
- Their therapeutic potential is primarily linked to the inhibition of 5-lipoxygenase (5-LO).
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the recent advancements in the chemistry and bioactivity of boswellic acids.
- To highlight their emerging anti-cancer properties and underlying mechanisms.
Main Methods:
- Comprehensive literature review of over 276 references.
- Analysis of phytochemical data and chemical modifications of boswellic acids.
- Discussion of biological activities and mechanisms of action.
Main Results:
- Boswellic acids exhibit significant anti-cancer effects through various pathways.
- Understanding their phytochemistry and chemical modifications is crucial for drug development.
- The 5-LO inhibition mechanism is relevant to both anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer actions.
Conclusions:
- Boswellic acids represent a valuable class of natural compounds with dual therapeutic potential.
- Further research into their chemical modifications and mechanisms can lead to novel anti-cancer therapies.
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