Diterpenoids from the genus Croton and their biological activities

The genus Croton, a member of the Euphorbiaceae family, comprises nearly 1300 species globally, predominantly inhabiting tropical and subtropical regions. Certain species of Croton are renowned for their significant medicinal properties. Diterpenoids, as the principal bioactive constituents of this genus, exhibit a diverse array of biological activities. From 2013 to 2025, a total of 545 newly identified diterpenoids featuring 34 distinct skeletal types, predominantly labdane, clerodane, tigliane, and crotofolane structures, were isolated from 45 Croton species, including several novel frameworks. According to available literature, Croton diterpenoids demonstrate notable anti-inflammatory and anti-tumor properties, with clerodane and tigliane variants showing particularly promising results. Additionally, antimicrobial, anti-proliferative, anti-angiogenic, neuroprotective, insecticidal, and anti-liver fibrotic activities have been reported for various Croton diterpenoids. This review consolidates information on the distribution, chemical structures, potential biosynthetic pathways and biological activities of diterpenoids isolated from Croton species during the specified period.