[Pterocarpans and their biological activities: a review]

Area of Science:

• Natural Product Chemistry
• Plant Biochemistry
• Pharmacology

Background:

• Pterocarpans are plant defense compounds found in Fabaceae (Leguminosae).
• 144 pterocarpans were known before 2006.
• Plant-derived compounds are crucial for developing new therapeutics.

Purpose of the Study:

• To report newly identified pterocarpans from 2006-2020.
• To characterize their stereostructures and biological activities.
• To explore their biogenetic pathways and structure-activity relationships.

Main Methods:

• Literature review and data compilation of pterocarpans identified between 2006-2020.
• Analysis of stereochemical diversity and genus specificity.
• Evaluation of reported pharmacological activities (antimicrobial, antitumor, antioxidant, insecticidal, anti-inflammatory).
• Biogenetic pathway projection and structure-activity correlation analysis.

Main Results:

• 89 novel pterocarpans were identified, showcasing complex and diversified stereostructures.
• These pterocarpans exhibit potent antimicrobial, antitumor, antioxidant, insecticidal, and anti-inflammatory activities.
• Structure-activity correlations were confirmed through biogenetic pathway analysis.

Conclusions:

• Pterocarpans represent a valuable class of bioactive natural products with significant therapeutic and agricultural potential.
• The regional distribution of pterocarpan-rich Leguminosae plants suggests opportunities for targeted resource utilization.
• Further research and development of pterocarpans and their plant sources, particularly in China, are recommended.