Structure, activity and biosynthesis of xanthones in genus Swertia

The xanthones in genus Swertia are a group of active constituents that have received much attention in recent years, and they are widely distributed in various herbal medicines and exhibit diverse biological activities. These xanthones have a unique chemical structure and are formed in genus Swertia through a variety of biosynthetic pathways. The xanthones in genus Swertia plants include simple xanthones, glycosylated xanthones and other types. These compounds differ in oxygen substitution position, glycosidic modification, etc., thus forming a rich diversity of chemical structures. Such compounds have significant biological activities including anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antiviral, hepatoprotective, anti-diabetic, anticancer and neuroprotective effects. Biosynthetic pathways are complex, involving multiple enzymes and intermediates. Among them, the study of some key steps and enzymes provides important clues to reveal the biosynthetic mechanism of the xanthones. The review encompasses the structural features, activity, and biosynthesis the natural xanthones.