Advances in Schaftoside Research: Pharmacological Mechanisms, Pharmacokinetics, and Therapeutic Perspectives

Schaftoside is a flavonoid C-glycoside widely existing in medicinal plants and has been extensively reported due to its pharmacological activities, such as anti-inflammatory, hepatoprotective, antioxidant and neuroprotective activities. These pharmacological activities may be attributed to its effects on apoptosis, autophagy, ferroptosis, pyroptosis, oxidative stress and related signaling pathways. In this review, we summarize recent advances in pharmacological activities and pharmacomechanisms of schaftoside as well as its pharmacokinetic properties, formulation strategies, safety and therapeutic application. The biological effects of schaftoside have been demonstrated in various pathological models by relevant in vitro and in vivo experiments. However, its oral bioavailability is extremely low, which is a big challenge for its further development. Some formulation approaches, especially drug delivery systems, have shown preliminary prospects, but related reports are limited. Based on available toxicological findings, schaftoside is expected to have a relatively safe profile. However, the relationship between schaftoside and chemosensitivity as well as drug resistance needs to be further investigated. In conclusion, schaftoside is a promising bioactive compound; however, its pharmacokinetic properties and available clinical evidence need to be further investigated.