Novel Findings regarding the Bioactivity of the Natural Blue Pigment Genipin in Human Diseases
Magdalena Bryś, Karina Urbańska, Beata Olas
Abstract
Genipin is an important monoterpene iridoid compound isolated from Gardenia jasminoides J.Ellis fruits and from Genipa americana fruits, or genipap. It is a precursor of a blue pigment which may be attractive alternative to existing food dyes and it possesses various potential therapeutic properties such as anti-cancer, anti-diabetic and hepatoprotective activity. Biomedical studies also show that genipin may act as a neuroprotective drug. This review describes new aspects of the bioactivity of genipin against various diseases, as well as its toxicity and industrial applications, and presents its potential mechanism of action.
Topics & Concepts
GenipinGardenia jasminoidesChemistryPigmentTraditional medicineNeuroprotectionPharmacologyBiologyBiochemistryMedicineOrganic chemistryChitosanPathologyAlternative medicineSaffron Plant Research StudiesNatural Antidiabetic Agents StudiesMedicinal Plants and Bioactive Compounds