Natural Products and Anti-Inflammatory Biology
Summary
The study of natural products and their anti-inflammatory properties encompasses a wide array of bioactive compounds derived from plants, fungi and marine organisms. These substances, including flavonoids, terpenoids, saponins and alkaloids, can modulate inflammation by targeting key cellular pathways such as nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB), mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs) and the cyclooxygenase (COX) enzymes. Inflammation underlies many chronic diseases, from cardiovascular disorders to neurodegeneration, and natural products offer novel scaffolds for drug discovery with improved safety profiles. Recent advances have elucidated how specific molecular structures—particularly triterpenoids and sterols—inhibit pro-inflammatory mediators, reduce cytokine release and restore redox balance. Global research efforts are now focusing on standardising extraction methods, understanding biosynthetic pathways and applying multi-omics approaches to identify synergistic combinations. By integrating ethnobotanical knowledge with modern pharmacology, scientists aim to develop targeted therapies that harness the complexity of natural mixtures while minimising adverse effects.
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Natural Products and Anti-Inflammatory Biology publication trend
The graph below shows the total number of articles in natural products and anti-inflammatory biology across all publications each year (not limited to Nature Index journals).
Technical terms
Nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB): A transcription factor complex central to the regulation of inflammatory gene expression.
Mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs): A family of serine/threonine kinases (including ERK, JNK and p38) that transmit stress and cytokine signals.
Triterpenoid: A class of 30-carbon natural compounds derived from squalene, many of which exhibit anti-inflammatory or anticancer activity.
Saponin: A glycosylated compound composed of a hydrophobic aglycone (terpenoid or steroid) bonded to sugar moieties, known for membrane-active properties.
Cytokine: Small secreted proteins (e.g., TNF-α, IL-6) that mediate and regulate immunity, inflammation and haematopoiesis.
References
- Current knowledge on genus Bassia All.: a comprehensive review on traditional use, phytochemistry, pharmacological activity, and nonmedical applications. Phytochemistry Reviews (2023).
- Anti‐Inflammatory Effects of Aster incisus through the Inhibition of NF‐κB, MAPK, and Akt Pathways in LPS‐Stimulated RAW 264.7 Macrophages. Mediators of Inflammation (2018).
- Experimental Study of Antiatherosclerosis Effects with Hederagenin in Rats. Evidence-based Complementary and Alternative Medicine (2015).
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