Bioactive Compounds in Schisandra Chinensis and Their Health Implications
Summary
Schisandra chinensis, long esteemed in traditional medicine, harbours a rich spectrum of bioactive constituents including dibenzocyclooctadiene lignans (such as schisandrins A and B), triterpenoids, polyphenols and essential oils. These molecules exert multifaceted health effects through antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, hepatoprotective, neuroprotective, cardioprotective and anticancer actions. Mechanistic studies reveal modulation of key signalling pathways—NF-κB, MAPK, PI3K/Akt—together with induction of apoptosis, regulation of autophagy and preservation of mitochondrial function. Beyond molecular insights, S. chinensis extracts have demonstrated adaptogenic properties, supporting resilience to physical and psychological stress, as well as beneficial roles in metabolic regulation and immunomodulation. The global interest in this species has spurred development of nutraceuticals, functional foods and lead compounds for drug discovery, underscoring its practical applications in preventive and therapeutic contexts.
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Bioactive Compounds in Schisandra Chinensis and Their Health Implications publication trend
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Technical terms
Dibenzocyclooctadiene lignans: A class of lignan compounds characterised by a fused eight-membered ring structure and noted for antioxidant and signalling-modulatory effects.
Adaptogen: A natural substance that enhances the body’s resistance to stress and promotes physiological stability and balance.
Mitoprotector: A compound that preserves mitochondrial integrity and function under conditions of oxidative or inflammatory challenge.
Autophagy: A regulated cellular process that disposes of damaged organelles and proteins, recycling their components to maintain homeostasis.
References
- Comprehensive review of dibenzocyclooctadiene lignans from the Schisandra genus: anticancer potential, mechanistic insights and future prospects in oncology. Chinese Medicine (2024).
- Current knowledge of Schisandra chinensis (Turcz.) Baill. (Chinese magnolia vine) as a medicinal plant species: a review on the bioactive components, pharmacological properties, analytical and biotechnological studies. Phytochemistry Reviews (2016).
- Antioxidant Effects of Schisandra chinensis Fruits and Their Active Constituents. Antioxidants (2021).
- Potential of Schisandra chinensis (Turcz.) Baill. in Human Health and Nutrition: A Review of Current Knowledge and Therapeutic Perspectives. Nutrients (2019).
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