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Pharmacological Activity of Cepharanthine
Ke Liu1, Bixia Hong1, Shuqi Wang1
1College of Life Science and Technology, Beijing University of Chemical Technology, Beijing 100029, China.
Molecules (Basel, Switzerland)
|July 14, 2023
Summary
Cepharanthine, a plant-derived alkaloid, shows broad medicinal benefits, including significant antiviral activity against SARS-CoV-2. Its mechanism may involve stabilizing plasma membrane fluidity, highlighting its potential for diverse therapeutic applications.
Area of Science:
- Pharmacology
- Natural Products Chemistry
- Virology
Background:
- Cepharanthine is a bisbenzylisoquinoline alkaloid from *Stephania Cephalantha Hayata*.
- It is the only approved bisbenzylisoquinoline alkaloid for human use, with over 70 years of clinical application.
- Cepharanthine exhibits diverse medicinal properties, including immunomodulatory and antiviral activities.
Purpose of the Study:
- To comprehensively review the pharmacological properties and mechanisms of cepharanthine.
- To investigate its potential as an antiviral agent, particularly against SARS-CoV-2.
- To discuss its safety, bioavailability, and future clinical applications.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of pharmacological studies on cepharanthine.
- Analysis of reported mechanisms of action, including signaling pathway inhibition.
- Examination of clinical data regarding safety and efficacy.
Main Results:
- Cepharanthine demonstrates antitumor, anti-inflammatory, anti-pathogen, and bone resorption inhibitory effects.
- It has shown efficacy in treating alopecia and snake bites.
- A key antiviral mechanism identified is the stabilization of plasma membrane fluidity.
Conclusions:
- Cepharanthine possesses a wide range of pharmacological activities and a favorable safety profile.
- Its potential to inhibit SARS-CoV-2 infection is significant.
- Cepharanthine holds promise for various clinical applications and future drug development.
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