Research Progress on Plant-Derived Cardenolides (2010-2023)

Area of Science:

• Phytochemistry
• Pharmacology
• Natural Products Chemistry

Background:

• Cardenolides are steroidal glycosides from plants with a long history of clinical use.
• They possess significant cardiac physiological activity.
• Natural cardenolides have been extensively studied for their diverse biological effects.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review phytochemical and biological properties of natural cardenolides.
• To provide a reference for future research and development of cardenolides.
• To consolidate findings on cardenolides isolated between 2010 and 2023.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of scientific studies.
• Compilation of data on 295 natural cardenolides.
• Analysis of compounds isolated from 17 plant families.

Main Results:

• Cardenolides were isolated from numerous plant species across 17 families.
• Commonly reported pharmacological activities include antitumor, antibacterial, and antiviral effects.
• Structure-activity relationship studies revealed potential anticancer molecules.

Conclusions:

• Natural cardenolides exhibit significant pharmacological potential, particularly as anticancer agents.
• Further research into cardenolides can advance traditional Chinese medicine and drug discovery.
• This review provides a foundation for developing novel cardenolide-based therapeutics.