Betulonic acid: A review on its sources, biological activities, and molecular mechanisms
Shengying Lou, Chunyan Dai, Yuhua Wu, Lijiang Wang, Yao Jin, Naitao Shen, Wang Lv, Miaolian Wu, X.Z. Shawn Xu, Jichun Han, Xiangcheng Fan
Abstract
Pentacyclic triterpenoids represent a significant class of phytochemicals, categorized into oleanane, ursane, friedelane, and lupane. Among these, betulonic acid stands out as a lupane-type pentacyclic triterpenoid found in numerous plants. Its diverse biological properties, including anti-tumor, anti-viral, anti-inflammatory, anti-bacterial, and hepato-protective effects, have been extensively documented. To further explore the therapeutic potential of betulonic acid and its derivatives, we provide a comprehensive review of their sources, biological activities, and molecular mechanisms. We aim for this synthesis of data to stimulate fresh perspectives on betulonic acid and its potential in drug discovery.