Pharmacological potential of bioactive compounds in Catharanthus roseus extract: A comprehensive review
Keren Celestina Mendonce, Naveen Palani, Suriyaprakash Rajadesingu, Kaladhar Radhakrishnan, A. Manikandan, L. Srimathi Priya
Abstract
The pharmacological potential of bioactive compounds found in the plant, Catharanthus roseus , have diverse medicinal applications. Key constituents such as vinblastine and vincristine play an important role in cancer therapy due to their ability to disrupt microtubule function resulting in cell death in cancers such as neuroblastoma and leukemia. Beyond oncology, C. roseus extracts show promise as antidiabetic agents by regulating glucose metabolism and improving lipid profiles in animal models. The plant's antibacterial properties make it a potential candidate for combating infectious diseases, including those caused by multidrug-resistant pathogens. Moreover, compounds derived from C. roseus exhibit anti-inflammatory effects by modulating cytokine synthesis suggesting potential applications in treating inflammatory conditions. Recent research has uncovered potential neuroprotective properties opening avenues for neurodegenerative disorder treatments. There are currently challenges in refining extraction methods and enhancing component purity of the C. roseus extracts. Advancements in genetic engineering and high-performance liquid chromatography offer promising avenues for addressing these issues. CRISPR-Cas9 and machine learning are being explored to enhance alkaloid production and optimize cultivation conditions. Looking ahead, nanotechnology-based drug delivery systems hold the potential to enhance drug bioavailability and efficacy while reducing adverse effects. Additionally, exploring synergistic effects between these alkaloids and other compounds presents exciting possibilities in drug discovery. Catharanthus roseus emerges as a valuable reservoir of bioactive compounds with significant implications for pharmacology. Integrating traditional medicine with modern technologies promises to unlock new possibilities in drug development, potentially revolutionizing treatment strategies across various therapeutic domains. Schematic representation of Catharanthus roseus plant’s phytochemicals and diverse biological activities • Pharmacological potential bioactive compounds found in C. roseus have diverse medicinal applications. • Key constituents such as vinblastine and vincristine play an important role in cancer therapy. • C. roseus extracts show promise as antidiabetic agents by regulating glucose metabolism. • The antibacterial properties make it a potential candidate for combating infectious diseases. • C. roseus exhibit anti-inflammatory effects by modulating cytokine synthesis.