22 October 2026, Volume 16 Issue 5

    

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REVIEW
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  Mechanistic insights into polyphenolic constituents from traditional Chinese medicines in inhibiting colorectal cancer metastasis

  Ming-Hong Li, Lu Liu

  Natural Products and Bioprospecting. 2026, 16(5): 61-61. https://doi.org/10.1007/s13659-026-00622-2

  Abstract ( 41) Download PDF ( 43 ) HTML   Knowledge map   Save

  Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the third most predominant cancer caused by genetic, environmental and nutritional factors and is the world’s second most significant cause of cancer-related mortality. During the process of tumor metastasis, firstly, cancer cell increases its proliferative capacity by reducing autophagy and apoptosis, and then the cancer cell capacity is stimulated by increasing the ability of tumors to absorb nutrients from the outside through angiogenesis. Both of the two steps can increase tumor migration and invasion. Finally, the purpose of tumor metastasis is achieved. By inducing autophagy and apoptosis of tumor cells, blocking the angiogenesis and inhibiting EMT outside the tumor can reduce the invasion and migration of cancer, and consequently achieve the purpose of inhibiting tumor metastasis. Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) has the characteristics of multiple targets, slight side effects and good therapeutic effects. Research of the anticancer effect of Polyphenolic in TCM has made considerable progress in recent years. This review explores the research achievements of Polyphenolic in TCM on CRC metastasis in the past ten years, summarizes the development direction of Polyphenolic in TCM on CRC metastasis research in the past ten years and makes a prospect for the future.
ORIGINAL ARTICLES
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  First total synthesis of (±)-spirobroussonin B via electromediated oxidative coupling for constructing spirodienone ring

  Hong-Ji Shi, Xing-Ping Zhang, Cong-Xi Gao, Kun Xie, Wu-Yan Chen, Ming-Ming Li, Kou Wang

  Natural Products and Bioprospecting. 2026, 16(5): 62-62. https://doi.org/10.1007/s13659-026-00630-2

  Abstract ( 39) Download PDF ( 43 ) HTML   Knowledge map   Save

  An electromediated oxidative coupling strategy for constructing spirodienone fragment has been developed and applied as the key step for the total synthesis of (±)-spirobroussonin B. This concise route was accomplished in only four steps, 41.6% overall yield and the key coupling reaction was demonstrated on a gram scale. The absolute configurations of the enantiomers were unambiguously determined by chiral resolution and ECD calculations. This work establishes a solid foundation for developing practical and efficient syntheses of spirobroussonin B and related analogues.
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  New patchoulol- and guaiane-type sesquiterpenoids from Sanguisorba officinalis with anti-melanogenic activity

  Long-Long Wu, Jia-Rui Wu, Kai-Xian Chen, Liu-Qiang Zhang, Yi-Ming Li

  Natural Products and Bioprospecting. 2026, 16(5): 63-63. https://doi.org/10.1007/s13659-026-00616-0

  Abstract ( 39) Download PDF ( 44 ) HTML   Knowledge map   Save

  Twelve new sesquiterpenoids, sanguisorbaols A-L (1-12), along with twenty-five known compounds (13-37), were isolated from the roots of Sanguisorba officinalis. Structures were determined through comprehensive analysis of HRESIMS, 1D and 2D NMR spectroscopic data, ECD and NMR calculations, and X-ray crystallographic analysis. Among them, compounds 1-6 were identified as new patchoulol-type sesquiterpenoids bearing hydroxyl groups at different positions, the further structural elucidation revealed that compounds 5 and 6 are nor-patchoulol-type sesquiterpenoids due to the absence of the C-11 carbon atom. Compounds 7-11 were characterized as guaiane-type sesquiterpenoids incorporating a [5,7]-bicyclic framework, among which 7 and 8 constitute a pair of C-11 epimers. Notably, compound 12 possesses a rare bicyclo[4.3.1]decane core scaffold. All the patchoulol-type sesquiterpenoids reported here were obtained for the first time from the genus Sanguisorba, and a plausible biosynthetic pathway was proposed. Furthermore, the anti-melanogenic bioactivity of all isolates was assessed using IBMX-stimulated B16F10 melanoma cells. Compounds 3-5, 8-10, 12-14, 17, 19, 21, 22, 25-27, 29, 31, 32 and 34 demonstrated significant inhibitory activity against melanogenesis at concentrations ranging from 6.25 to 50 μM. These results highlighted the potential of S. officinalis as a natural anti-melanogenesis agent for skin-whitening or for the treatment of hyperpigmentation disorders.
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  Four new Cyclohexenone with antibacterial activity from the coral-derived fungus Aspergillus flavus

  Cili Wang, Jiarui Zhang, Lei Li, Sen Wang, Kai Li, Hu Hou, Pinglin Li

  Natural Products and Bioprospecting. 2026, 16(5): 64-64. https://doi.org/10.1007/s13659-026-00618-y

  Abstract ( 34) Download PDF ( 38 ) HTML   Knowledge map   Save

  Marine fungus-derived natural products are an important source of new drugs and lead compounds. In this study, guided by the Global Natural Products Social (GNPS) molecular networking strategy, four new cyclohexenone derivatives, aspergiflones A-D (1-4), together with three known analogues (5-7), were isolated from the coral-derived fungus Aspergillus flavus. The structures of these compounds were elucidated through extensive spectroscopic analyses, comparison with literature data, hydrolysis reactions, quantum chemical calculations, and TDDFT-ECD calculations. Structurally, aspergiflone A (1) is a novel cyclohexenone dimer featuring an unprecedented skeleton in which two cyclohexenone units are connected at C-15 via a C-C single bond. Compound 1 exhibited potent antibacterial activity against Escherichia coli. Mechanism studies revealed that compound 1 disrupts bacterial cell morphology, increases cell membrane permeability, and decreases intracellular K⁺ ion levels. Additionally, transcriptome analysis revealed that the differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were mainly associated with cellular process regulation, stimulus response, catalytic, and binding functions. Several pathways were also significantly affected in Escherichia coli, including ABC transporters, cofactor biosynthesis, energy metabolism, and arginine biosynthesis. The finding indicated that aspergiflone A has considerable potential in food safety.
REVIEW
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  Distribution and bioactivities of tirucallane-type triterpenoids from Meliaceae family

  Fajar Fauzi Abdullah, Sabrina Aisyah Putri, Noor Aishah Najihah, Nurlelasari, Wahyu Safriansyah, Khalijah Awang, Unang Supratman

  Natural Products and Bioprospecting. 2026, 16(5): 65-65. https://doi.org/10.1007/s13659-026-00631-1

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  Tirucallane-type triterpenoids are one of the most structurally diverse classes of secondary metabolites in Meliaceae family, which is predominantly distributed across tropical and subtropical regions. A total of 373 tirucallane derivatives have been reported between 1967 and 2025, from 48 species belonging to 17 genera. These compounds were isolated from different plant parts, including bark, stem bark, roots, leaves, fruits, twigs, seeds, and aerial tissues. Therefore, this review aims to integrate current reports on tirucallane-type triterpenoids from 17 Meliaceae genera, emphasizing structural complexity, taxonomic occurrence, and pharmacological relevance to guide future chemotaxonomic and drug discovery efforts. Literature collection was performed through Google Scholar, Reaxys, PubMed, and SciFinder. The results showed that based on the structural characteristics, tirucallane derivatives were categorized into intact, seco, heteroatom-substituted, degraded, and highly rearranged, with the intact subgroup being the most abundant. Furthermore, tirucallane derivatives have a broad spectrum of biological properties, including cytotoxic, antimicrobial, antiplasmodial, antidiabetic, anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory, FXR agonistic, and insecticidal effects, indicating significant potential therapeutic value. Among the reported compounds, laxiracemosin E (361) showed the strongest anticancer potential with IC₅₀ = 1.5 μM, while aphanamgrandin C (372), aphanamgrandin D (373), and dubione B (227) demonstrated potent antibacterial activity (MIC = 1.57-3.13 μg/mL). Hispidol A (2) indicated remarkable antiplasmodial activity (IC₅₀ = 2.45 μM), while meliasenin G (64), phellochin (66), and methyl angolensate (343) were identified as promising α-glucosidase inhibitors (IC₅₀ = 6.1 μM). In conclusion, tirucallane triterpenoids from Meliaceae offer an outstanding structural platform for future drug discovery and bioactivity optimization.
ORIGINAL ARTICLE
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  Sesamol derivatives bearing a quinazolin moiety: synthesis, antifungal efficacy against tea plant pathogens, and mechanistic insights

  Haixia Tang, Shiyi Liu, Fali Wang, Chao Gao, Linhong Jin, Dandan Xie

  Natural Products and Bioprospecting. 2026, 16(5): 66-66. https://doi.org/10.1007/s13659-025-00568-x

  Abstract ( 39) Download PDF ( 36 ) HTML   Knowledge map   Save

  AbstractPestalotiopsis sp. and Colletotrichum camelliae are two devastating fungal pathogens that cause significant yield losses and quality degradation in tea plants (Camellia sinensis). The increasing resistance of these pathogens to commercial fungicides necessitates the development of novel fungicidal agents with distinct modes of action. In this study, A series of novel sesamol derivatives incorporating a quinazolin moiety were synthesized and structurally validated by ¹H NMR, ¹³C NMR, and HRMS. In vitro bioassays demonstrated that these derivatives exhibited potent antifungal activity, with compounds 4g and 4i standing out: against Pestalotiopsis sp., their inhibition rates reached 76.4% and 86.9% (vs. 18.0% for the parent compound sesamol); against C. camelliae, the rates were 57.9% and 70.8% (vs. 42.3% for sesamol). Notably, their in vivo control efficacy significantly surpassed that of azoxystrobin: 4g and 4i controlled C. camelliae with efficiencies of 66.6% and 51.7% (vs. 25.7% for azoxystrobin) and Pestalotiopsis sp. with 99.0% efficacy (vs. 57.1% for azoxystrobin). Mechanistic investigations revealed dual modes of action: (i) direct disruption of fungal cell membrane integrity; (ii) induction of tea plant resistance via up-regulating activities of defense-related enzymes (PAL, POD, SOD, CAT). Integrated transcriptomic and proteomic analyses further confirmed that 4g activates classical defense pathways by coordinately regulating defense gene expression and protein synthesis.In summary, these sesamol-quinazolin hybrids demonstrate potent antifungal activities with multiple targets. This study not only expands the application scope of the natural product sesamol but also provides promising lead compounds for the development of eco-friendly fungicides in tea plant protection.
REVIEW
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  Exploring the global mosaic of medicinal plant databases: unveiling nature’s pharmacopoeia

  Yifei Jiang, Xiaozhuan Jia, Zhenzhong Yang

  Natural Products and Bioprospecting. 2026, 16(5): 67-67. https://doi.org/10.1007/s13659-026-00614-2

  Abstract ( 42) Download PDF ( 33 ) HTML   Knowledge map   Save

  Medicinal plants have long served as an important asset in the treatment of diseases. Recent developments in computer science have enabled the rise of specialized databases cataloging medicinal plant knowledge. However, a systematic comparison of available region-specific medicinal plant databases is lacking. This review summarizes globally available medicinal plant databases that focus on specific geographical regions, aiming to inspire and guide people from specialists to the general public toward fostering innovation and making informed decisions. Through a systematic search of literature and digital resources, 81 regional medicinal plant databases established or updated between 2013 and 2025 were identified. From this pool, 40 core platforms were subjected to detailed statistical characterization regarding their data categories and volume. Our analysis reveals a geographical concentration in Asia (48.1%), dominated by China and India, alongside a notable proliferation of universal databases with a global scope. These databases facilitate critical applications in drug discovery, quality control, biodiversity conservation, and policy-making. By identifying current research gaps and emphasizing the need for interdisciplinary standardization, this review serves as a strategic roadmap for bridging traditional wisdom with modern therapeutic innovation.
ORIGINAL ARTICLES
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  Elucidating therapeutic mechanisms of naringin and phloridzin on ulcerative colitis mice by metabolomics-based comparative analysis

  Jing Yang, Chongxin Kang, Chulei Xiao, Yusi Zhang, Yihong Mai, Yinghong Huang, Yi Zhan, Hetong Liu, Xian Wang

  Natural Products and Bioprospecting. 2026, 16(5): 68-68. https://doi.org/10.1007/s13659-026-00620-4

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  Naringin and phloridzin are structurally similar flavonoids with anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antimicrobial properties, showing considerable potential as natural therapeutic agents. This study demonstrated that naringin and phloridzin exert anti-inflammatory effects and preserve normal intestinal function in UC mice. This protective effect is mediated by inhibition of the NF-κB signalling pathway. To investigate metabolic differences, we employed UPLC-MS/MS-based widely targeted metabolomics alongside targeted analyses of tryptophan (Trp) and short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs). Comparative analysis of metabolic profiles, differential metabolites, and associated pathways revealed regulatory effects on Trp and SCFAs. However, naringin demonstrated superior regulation of Trp metabolism and SCFA levels compared to phloridzin, resulting in more pronounced improvement of gut homeostasis. These findings elucidate the metabolic mechanisms underlying both flavonoid treatments and underscore their potential as complementary therapies for UC.Naringin and phloridzin exert protective effects against DSS-induced ulcerative colitis by modulating tryptophan metabolism and suppressing inflammation through inhibition of the NF-κB signaling pathway
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  Rapid exploration of anti-MRSA components from plants of Salvia

  Huan Huang, Zhao-Jie Wang, Li-Yu Bai, Yue-Ming Jiang, Yan-Yan Zhu, Yun-Li Zhao, Xiao-Dong Luo

  Natural Products and Bioprospecting. 2026, 16(5): 69-69. https://doi.org/10.1007/s13659-026-00624-0

  Abstract ( 45) Download PDF ( 39 ) HTML   Knowledge map   Save

  Plants of Salvia are frequently used for treatment infections of boils and sores in Traditional Chinese medicine, which might inhibit microbial. In this work, the chemical constituents of the effective fractions were analyzed using UPLC-Q-TOF-MS, and multivariate analysis and network pharmacology were used to predict potential antibacterial substances and their mechanism. Moreover, against methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) effect and pathway of bioactive compounds were validated by experiments in vitro and in vivo. Two unreported anti-MRSA compounds, miltirone and przewaquinone A were proposed and then validated by serial experiments. They acted as bactericides and biofilm scavengers, respectively, and both targeted on the cell membrane, causing leakage of contents and affecting intracellular metabolism, leading to bacterial death without significant toxicity. Furthermore, miltirone ameliorated skin wound infection caused by MRSA in mice, roughly equal to vancomycin. The research supported the traditional use of Salvia plants, and presented two potent bactericidal agents for further investigation.
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  Oligosaccharides from Polygonatum cyrtonema Hua ameliorate colitis-induced lung injury via modulation of the gut-lung axis through NF-κB and Nrf2 pathways

  Jin Xu, Chuankang Tang, Qianyu He, Yu Lu, Pei Luo, Jianbo Wu

  Natural Products and Bioprospecting. 2026, 16(5): 70-70. https://doi.org/10.1007/s13659-026-00608-0

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  BackgroundThe gut-lung axis is a bidirectional communication network linking intestinal and pulmonary homeostasis through shared immunological and molecular mechanisms, conceptually consistent with the traditional Chinese medicine theory of “lung-intestine combined treatment.” Polygonatum cyrtonema Hua is an edible medicinal plant with reported anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, yet its role in intestinal inflammation-associated lung injury remains unclear.Materials and methodsDextran sulfate sodium (DSS)-induced colitis and lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced lung injury models were established in vivo, while LPS-stimulated A549 lung epithelial cells were used in vitro. The protective effects of Polygonatum cyrtonema oligosaccharides (PFOS) were evaluated, with particular focus on NF-κB and Nrf2 signaling pathways. The Nrf2 inhibitor ML385 was applied in vitro to verify pathway involvement. Non-targeted fecal metabolomics was conducted to assess PFOS-mediated metabolic modulation.ResultsPFOS significantly alleviated DSS-associated lung histopathological damage, reduced inflammatory cell infiltration, and improved epithelial barrier integrity. PFOS suppressed pulmonary proinflammatory cytokines, including TNF-α and IL-6, decreased myeloperoxidase activity, and attenuated oxidative stress by lowering malondialdehyde levels while enhancing antioxidant enzymes such as superoxide dismutase and HO-1. Mechanistically, PFOS inhibited NF-κB activation and promoted Nrf2/HO-1 signaling in lung tissues and LPS-stimulated A549 cells, effects that were partially reversed by ML385. Metabolomics analysis revealed that PFOS corrected DSS-induced disturbances in amino acid and lipid metabolism, with enrichment in cAMP, PPAR, and tryptophan-related pathways.ConclusionsPFOS protects against colitis-associated lung injury by modulating the gut-lung axis through coordinated anti-inflammatory and antioxidant mechanisms involving NF-κB inhibition and Nrf2 activation, supporting its potential therapeutic application in gut-lung axis-related diseases.
REVIEW
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  Novel bioactive compounds from marine-derived endosymbiotic Penicillium fungi reported during 2020-2025

  Sarah A. Omran, Mohamed S. Elnaggar, Fadia S. Youssef, Safaa A. El-Moghazy

  Natural Products and Bioprospecting. 2026, 16(5): 71-71. https://doi.org/10.1007/s13659-026-00633-z

  Abstract ( 41) Download PDF ( 41 ) HTML   Knowledge map   Save

  Marine-derived Penicillium fungus gained significant attention in recent years due to their potential as a valuable source of unique natural compounds with a wide range of chemical structures and bioactive capabilities. The primary origins of marine-derived Penicillium fungi are mangroves, sediments, marine shrimps, corals, starfish, algae, and sponges. A total of 390 unique natural compounds were extracted from Penicillium fungi which were found in marine environments. These compounds primarily consist of polyketides, alkaloids, terpenoids, chromone derivatives, anthraquinones, citrinins, steroids, azaphilones, and macrolides. Biological studies demonstrated that these compounds exhibit antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, cytotoxic, pesticide development, neuroprotective, anti-glioma, anti-proliferative, α-glucosidase inhibitory activities, anti-allergic, photo-protective, anti-angiogenic effect, larvicidal activity, antiviral, anti-diabetic activity, and other activities that could be useful in the development of new drugs. This study shed the light on the recent discovery of bioactive MNPs (marine-derived Penicillium; natural products) derived from Penicillium fungi found in marine environments in the last five years from 2020 to 2025, classified the MNPs based on the sources of the fungi and their specific biological activities. Besides, the results of molecular docking studies recently performed on Penicillium metabolites referring to various biological activities were also compiled in this review. Thus, this review highlighted that Penicillium species obtained from marine organisms act as an everlasting mine of bioactive novel metabolites combating various ailments.
ORIGINAL ARTICLES
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  Metabolite diversification via halogen salts enhances biocontrol potential of marine-derived Trichoderma virens B211

  Minh Van Nguyen, Yeong Seok Kim, Seung Mok Ryu, Jaeyoung Kwon, Hun Kim, Gyung Ja Choi, Jae Woo Han

  Natural Products and Bioprospecting. 2026, 16(5): 72-72. https://doi.org/10.1007/s13659-026-00634-y

  Abstract ( 33) Download PDF ( 40 ) HTML   Knowledge map   Save

  In the search for natural products with potent activity against plant diseases, we employed the one strain-many compounds (OSMAC) strategy to the marine-derived fungus Trichoderma virens B211 by supplementing cultures with halogen salts such as sodium bromide (NaBr). Both solid and liquid cultures grown under NaBr-supplemented conditions exhibited markedly darker pigmentation of B211, a diversified secondary metabolite profile, and enhanced antibacterial activity against Erwinia amylovora. Bioassay-guided fractionation of these extracts led to the isolation of fourteen compounds (1-14), including two new polycyclic aromatic terpenoids (1 and 5) belonging to the viridin family. In vitro antimicrobial assays demonstrated that viridin (3) and β-viridin (4), together with gliotoxin (8), displayed broad-spectrum activity against diverse plant pathogenic fungi and bacteria. Notably, viridin derivatives 1 and 2, which are structural isomers, exhibited distinct bioactivity profiles: compound 1 exhibited antifungal activity, whereas compound 2 showed antibacterial activity. Among the isolated metabolites, only gliotoxin (8) and bisdethiobis(methylthio)gliotoxin (9) exhibited direct antibacterial activity against E. amylovora. Furthermore, NaBr-induced crude extracts in which compounds 8 and 9 were the major constituents, as well as the purified compounds themselves, effectively suppressed fire blight symptoms. Collectively, these findings highlight the effectiveness of the OSMAC approach in expanding the chemical diversity of metabolites produced by T. virens B211 and enhancing its potential as a biocontrol agent for plant disease management.
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  Structural characterization, rheological properties, and skin bioactivities of a glucomannan from Bletilla striata

  Xuan Li, Qinghui Gu, Qile Hu, Tuo Deng, Lan Luo, Jianping Cai, Xudong Dong, Chunhua Wu, Mingyi Wu

  Natural Products and Bioprospecting. 2026, 16(5): 73-73. https://doi.org/10.1007/s13659-026-00638-8

  Abstract ( 46) Download PDF ( 36 ) HTML   Knowledge map   Save

  Bletilla striata is highly regarded in traditional Chinese medicine and has also gained widespread attention as a valuable medicinal plant resource. However, the molecular composition and bioactive potential of its polysaccharides present a significant knowledge gap. Herein, a specific glucomannan fraction, designated as BSP60, was purified from Bletilla striata tubers and subsequently subjected to structural, rheological, and biological evaluations. Comprehensive characterization via methylation-GC-MS, monosaccharide composition analysis, and 1D and 2D NMR techniques demonstrated that BSP60 possesses a β-(1 → 4)-linked backbone featuring alternating mannosyl and glucosyl units, with the mannose moieties exhibiting partial O-acetylation at their C-2 or C-3 positions (with an acetylation rate of 23.54%). Rheological studies showed that BSP60 aqueous solutions exhibit shear-thinning behavior and form an elastic-dominated viscoelastic network, with higher viscosity and storage modulus than dextran of comparable molecular weight, indicating enhanced intermolecular interactions. Biological assays revealed that the BSP60 effectively decreased the level of NO, IL-6, and TNF-α in LPS-triggered macrophages (RAW264.7). Furthermore, the scavenge ability of BSP60 to superoxide anion (O₂^·-) and ABTS^⁺· radicals are significantly higher than that of hyaluronic acid. This study systematically characterizes the structural features of glucomannan derived from Bletilla striata, thereby establishing a robust scientific basis for its expanded utilization in the development of biomedical materials and functional cosmetic ingredients.
REVIEWS
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  Maca polysaccharides: structural diversity, biological activities, and structure-activity relationships

  Xue-Fang Zhao, Zhou-Wei Wu, Xiao-Qiu Liu, Ming-Hua Qiu

  Natural Products and Bioprospecting. 2026, 16(5): 74-74. https://doi.org/10.1007/s13659-026-00609-z

  Abstract ( 48) Download PDF ( 39 ) HTML   Knowledge map   Save

  Maca (Lepidium meyenii Walp.) is a high-altitude cruciferous crop native to the Peruvian Andes. Its edible hypocotyl accumulates structurally diverse polysaccharides that exhibit a broad spectrum of bioactivities, including immunomodulatory, antioxidant, anti-fatigue, and hepatoprotective effects. This review systematically summarizes recent advances in the extraction, purification, and structural characterization of maca polysaccharides. Five major structural types have been identified: α-glucans, arabinogalactans (types I and II), homogalacturonans, rhamnogalacturonans, and mannose-containing heteropolysaccharides, with molecular weights spanning three orders of magnitude (3.0-1951.0 kDa). We critically analyze structure-activity relationships, demonstrating that biological functions are governed by the interplay of molecular weight, monosaccharide composition, glycosidic linkage patterns, and spatial conformation. Key findings reveal that medium-molecular-weight fractions (200.0-400.0 kDa) exhibit optimal immunomodulatory activity, specific monosaccharide motifs confer receptor selectivity, and triple-helix conformations enhance immune recognition. Current limitations—including structural heterogeneity, incomplete mechanistic understanding, and lack of clinical validation—are discussed, alongside future research priorities. This work provides a comprehensive framework for understanding maca polysaccharide structure-function relationships and guiding their future development as functional food ingredients.
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  Translational potential of medicinal plants for Alzheimer’s disease: integrated evidence from molecular mechanisms to preclinical and clinical findings

  Shirsendu Nag Saikat, Nawfal Hasan Siam

  Natural Products and Bioprospecting. 2026, 16(5): 75-75. https://doi.org/10.1007/s13659-026-00621-3

  Abstract ( 58) Download PDF ( 39 ) HTML   Knowledge map   Save

  Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder driven by amyloid-β accumulation, tau hyperphosphorylation, oxidative stress, neuroinflammation, mitochondrial dysfunction, and cholinergic deficits. Despite extensive research, current FDA-approved therapies provide only modest symptomatic relief, underscoring the urgent need for safe and multi-targeted alternatives. This comprehensive review synthesizes evidence from in vitro, in vivo, and clinical studies on 15 medicinal plants and their 21 active compounds with therapeutic relevance to AD. Studies were included based on defined screening criteria: reported neuroprotective activity in at least one AD-related pathway, mechanistic evidence from preclinical or clinical investigations, and publication between 2015 and 2025. Analysis demonstrates that numerous plant extracts and isolated compounds including those from Allium sativum, Bacopa monnieri, Centella asiatica, Crocus sativus, Curcuma longa, Ginkgo biloba, Hericium erinaceus, Melissa officinalis, Nigella sativa, Salvia miltiorrhiza, Vitis vinifera, and others exert neuroprotective actions through convergent mechanisms. These include attenuation of oxidative and inflammatory pathways, inhibition of acetylcholinesterase and BACE-1, suppression of amyloid and tau pathology, enhancement of synaptic plasticity, mitochondrial support, and activation of neurotrophic signaling such as BDNF, TrkB and NRF2. Several compounds, including crocin, crocetin, curcumin, bilobalide, tanshinone IIA, bacosides, thymoquinone, and salvianolic acid B, demonstrate strong mechanistic activity across multiple AD-related pathways. Clinical trials further validate translational potential, with improvements reported in cognitive performance, behavioral symptoms, biomarker regulation, and daily functioning in individuals with mild cognitive impairment, AD, or age-related cognitive decline. Together, the evidence highlights medicinal plants as promising complementary or alternative strategies for modifying disease-relevant mechanisms and supporting cognitive health. Continued high-quality clinical investigations and optimized formulations are essential to advance these candidates toward therapeutic application.
ORIGINAL ARTICLE
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  Huanglian-Wendan Decoction alleviates DSS-induced colitis by modulating the gut microbiota and protecting against intestinal injury via suppression of colonic apoptosis and endoplasmic reticulum stress

  Liang Li, Xinyi Zhan, Hidayat Ullah, Wenxian Guo, Ping Gui, Weijie Peng, Quanxi Mei, Weibo Dai, Yuting Duan, Xia Yuan, Xianjing Hu

  Natural Products and Bioprospecting. 2026, 16(5): 76-76. https://doi.org/10.1007/s13659-026-00636-w

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  Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a chronic disorder characterized by recurrent intestinal inflammation and gut microbiota dysbiosis. Huanglian-Wendan Decoction (HLWDD) has been clinically used for IBD treatment; however, its underlying mechanisms remain unclear. In this study, a dextran sulfate sodium (DSS, 2.25%)-induced IBD mouse model was established to evaluate the therapeutic effects of HLWDD. The protective mechanisms were investigated in colon tissues of DSS-induced mice using ELISA, immunoblotting, histological, and immunohistochemical analyses. In addition, the impact of HLWDD on gut microbiota dysbiosis was analyzed using 16S rRNA sequencing. Antibiotic treatment was applied before DSS administration to deplete gut microbiota and verify the role of microbial modulation. Furthermore, the phytochemical constituents of HLWDD were characterized using liquid chromatography-quadrupole time-of-flight tandem mass spectrometry (LC-QTOF-MS/MS). The results demonstrated that HLWDD markedly alleviated DSS-induced colitis, as evidenced by reduced body weight loss, rectal bleeding, colon shortening, and disease activity index (DAI) scores. Mechanistically, HLWDD suppressed inflammatory responses in colon tissues by inhibiting the TLR4/MyD88/NF-κB and IL-6/JAK2/STAT3 signaling pathways, while enhancing epithelial barrier integrity through upregulation of ZO-1, Occludin, Claudin-1, and Mucin-2. In addition, HLWDD attenuated endoplasmic reticulum stress (ERS) and apoptosis by downregulating CHOP, phospho-eIF2α, cleaved caspase-3, and Bax, while increasing Bcl-2 expression in colonic tissues. Microbiota analysis revealed an increased abundance of beneficial bacterial genera such as Akkermansia and Escherichia-Shigella-related commensals, along with enrichment of beneficial bacterial families including Ruminococcaceae, Lachnospiraceae, and Verrucomicrobiaceae, whereas potentially harmful taxa such as Escherichia and Paraprevotella were reduced. HLWDD also increased the production of short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), including acetate, butyrate, and isobutyrate, thereby promoting intestinal homeostasis. Importantly, the protective effects of HLWDD were largely abolished following antibiotic-mediated gut microbiota depletion, confirming the essential role of microbial modulation in its therapeutic action. Collectively, these findings suggest that HLWDD ameliorates IBD by regulating gut microbiota composition and function, thereby inhibiting colonic ER stress and apoptosis and restoring intestinal barrier integrity. This study provides mechanistic evidence supporting the potential clinical application of HLWDD as a novel therapeutic strategy for IBD.
REVIEWS
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  The inhibition of pathological IgE in allergic diseases by natural compounds

  Michelle Carnazza, Morgan Begley, Raj K. Tiwari, Jan Geliebter, Nan Yang, Jixun Zhan, Xiu-Min Li

  Natural Products and Bioprospecting. 2026, 16(5): 77-77. https://doi.org/10.1007/s13659-026-00596-1

  Abstract ( 61) Download PDF ( 45 ) HTML   Knowledge map   Save

  IgE-mediated allergic diseases are common and greatly affect quality of life. Current therapeutic strategies include avoidance, which is unreliable, and unspecific symptom management, which causes adverse effects and are expensive. This urges the need for safe, effective, and affordable treatment options for infants, children, adolescents, and adults. This narrative review discusses naturally occurring compounds that have been researched in animal models, in vitro cell lines, and clinical trials to inhibit pathological IgE. These include Food Allergy Herbal Formula (FAHF)-1 and -2 and the derivatives B-FAHF-2, EBF-2, and berberine; Rubia cordifolia and its isolate xanthopurpurin; arctigenin; Anti-Asthma Herbal Medicine Intervention and its isolate formononetin; apigenin; luteolin; resveratrol; pterostilbene; and ginsenoside Rh1. Natural compounds largely work through reduction of IgE production of B cells through modulation of genes involved in B cell activation, differentiation and proliferation, and cell cycle. There is a resulting reduction of Th2 responses and mast cell degranulation, and hence allergic disease pathology and symptomology. There are rich resources of natural compounds, including those with the capacity to restore immunity to that seen in non-allergic individuals. Natural compounds are promising, novel treatment strategies for the vast sufferers of food allergy, allergic asthma, allergic rhinitis, and allergic eczema.
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  A review on natural enzyme inhibitors: an effective approach to control postprandial hyperglycemia in type II diabetes

  Faezeh Shirkhan, Saeed Mirdamadi, Behrouz Akbari-adergani, Hadis Aryaee

  Natural Products and Bioprospecting. 2026, 16(5): 78-78. https://doi.org/10.1007/s13659-026-00606-2

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  Type II diabetes (T2D) is a chronic disease caused by hyperglycemia, insulin resistance, and insufficient insulin production. Inhibition of α-amylase, α-glucosidase, and dipeptidyl peptidase (DPP-IV) enzymes is considered a crucial interventional approach in managing T2D. Therefore, identification of natural enzyme inhibitors is essential. Hence, this study aims to highlight existing gaps and future needs regarding the potential application of natural inhibitors such as carbohydrates, lipid compounds, phytochemicals, probiotic strains, and bioactive peptides in the inhibition of enzymes involved in T2D as well as their inhibitory effects which were reviewed completely. The results of most studies showed that phenolic compounds and polysaccharides impart significant biological potential in inhibiting enzymes. This review highlights that food products fermented by probiotics possess considerable potential for diabetes control. Peptides, liposoluble, and phytochemical compounds play an obvious role in diabetes management, promising results from enzyme inhibition assays suggesting their potential as safer alternatives to conventional treatments for diabetes. However, several limitations such as type of assay methods, enzyme sources, bioavailability, and lack of research resources were observed. Therefore, additional studies should be carried out to establish optimal dosages, bioavailability, and validation methods. Understanding the inhibitory mechanisms of natural enzyme inhibitors and examining the structure-activity relationships between them are critical subjects that must receive more attention in future researches. Additionally, it is important to address the gap between scientific research and the commercialization of natural products. Hence, future efforts should prioritize conducting cell-based studies and clinical trials to evaluate the efficacy and safety of these products.