Parthenolide: Difference between revisions

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'''Parthenolide''' is a sesquiterpene lactone which is the primary bioactive compound in the medicinal plant [[Feverfew]] (''Tanacetum parthenium''). It is known for its anti-inflammatory, anti-cancer, and anti-migraine effects.
{{short description|A sesquiterpene lactone found in the plant feverfew}}
 
==Parthenolide==
[[File:Parthenolide.svg|thumb|right|Chemical structure of parthenolide]]
Parthenolide is a naturally occurring [[sesquiterpene lactone]] found in the plant [[Tanacetum parthenium]], commonly known as [[feverfew]]. It is one of the primary active compounds responsible for the medicinal properties attributed to feverfew.


==Chemical Structure==
==Chemical Structure==
Parthenolide has a complex chemical structure, which includes a seven-membered ring with an epoxide and a lactone group. Its molecular formula is C15H20O3.
Parthenolide is characterized by its sesquiterpene lactone structure, which includes a [[lactone]] ring and an [[epoxide]] group. The presence of these functional groups is crucial for its biological activity.


==Biological Activity==
==Biological Activity==
Parthenolide has been shown to have several biological activities. It is best known for its anti-inflammatory and anti-migraine effects, which are believed to be due to its ability to inhibit the release of inflammatory substances from white blood cells. It has also been shown to have anti-cancer effects, particularly against leukemia and breast cancer cells.
Parthenolide has been studied for its potential [[anti-inflammatory]], [[antitumor]], and [[antimicrobial]] properties. It is believed to inhibit the [[NF-_B]] signaling pathway, which plays a key role in regulating the immune response to infection.
 
===Anti-inflammatory Effects===
Parthenolide is thought to reduce inflammation by inhibiting the activation of [[NF-_B]], a protein complex that controls the transcription of DNA, cytokine production, and cell survival. This makes it a compound of interest in the treatment of inflammatory conditions such as [[arthritis]].
 
===Antitumor Properties===
Research has suggested that parthenolide may induce [[apoptosis]] in cancer cells, making it a potential candidate for [[cancer therapy]]. Its ability to target cancer stem cells has been a particular focus of study.
 
===Antimicrobial Activity===
Parthenolide has shown activity against a range of [[bacteria]] and [[fungi]], suggesting its potential use as an antimicrobial agent.


==Medical Uses==
==Medical Uses==
Parthenolide is used in herbal medicine as a treatment for migraines and headaches, arthritis, fevers, muscle tension and pain, and to stimulate menstruation. It is also used in the treatment of cancer, particularly leukemia and breast cancer.
Parthenolide is primarily used in the form of feverfew extracts for the treatment of [[migraine]] headaches. It is also being investigated for its potential use in treating other conditions due to its anti-inflammatory and antitumor properties.


==Safety and Side Effects==
==Safety and Side Effects==
While parthenolide is generally considered safe, it can cause side effects such as mouth ulcers, digestive problems, and allergic reactions in some people. It should not be used by pregnant women, as it can stimulate uterine contractions.
While feverfew and parthenolide are generally considered safe when used appropriately, they can cause side effects such as [[allergic reactions]], [[mouth ulcers]], and [[gastrointestinal discomfort]]. Long-term use and high doses should be avoided without medical supervision.


==Research==
==Related pages==
Research into the medicinal properties of parthenolide is ongoing. Recent studies have focused on its potential use in the treatment of cancer, particularly leukemia and breast cancer.
 
==See Also==
* [[Feverfew]]
* [[Feverfew]]
* [[Sesquiterpene lactones]]
* [[Sesquiterpene lactone]]
* [[Anti-inflammatory]]
* [[NF-_B]]
* [[Anti-cancer]]
* [[Apoptosis]]


[[Category:Medicinal plants]]
[[Category:Sesquiterpene lactones]]
[[Category:Herbal medicine]]
[[Category:Anti-inflammatory agents]]
[[Category:Anti-inflammatory agents]]
[[Category:Anti-cancer agents]]
[[Category:Antitumor agents]]
 
{{stub}}

Latest revision as of 10:50, 15 February 2025

A sesquiterpene lactone found in the plant feverfew


Parthenolide[edit]

Chemical structure of parthenolide

Parthenolide is a naturally occurring sesquiterpene lactone found in the plant Tanacetum parthenium, commonly known as feverfew. It is one of the primary active compounds responsible for the medicinal properties attributed to feverfew.

Chemical Structure[edit]

Parthenolide is characterized by its sesquiterpene lactone structure, which includes a lactone ring and an epoxide group. The presence of these functional groups is crucial for its biological activity.

Biological Activity[edit]

Parthenolide has been studied for its potential anti-inflammatory, antitumor, and antimicrobial properties. It is believed to inhibit the NF-_B signaling pathway, which plays a key role in regulating the immune response to infection.

Anti-inflammatory Effects[edit]

Parthenolide is thought to reduce inflammation by inhibiting the activation of NF-_B, a protein complex that controls the transcription of DNA, cytokine production, and cell survival. This makes it a compound of interest in the treatment of inflammatory conditions such as arthritis.

Antitumor Properties[edit]

Research has suggested that parthenolide may induce apoptosis in cancer cells, making it a potential candidate for cancer therapy. Its ability to target cancer stem cells has been a particular focus of study.

Antimicrobial Activity[edit]

Parthenolide has shown activity against a range of bacteria and fungi, suggesting its potential use as an antimicrobial agent.

Medical Uses[edit]

Parthenolide is primarily used in the form of feverfew extracts for the treatment of migraine headaches. It is also being investigated for its potential use in treating other conditions due to its anti-inflammatory and antitumor properties.

Safety and Side Effects[edit]

While feverfew and parthenolide are generally considered safe when used appropriately, they can cause side effects such as allergic reactions, mouth ulcers, and gastrointestinal discomfort. Long-term use and high doses should be avoided without medical supervision.

Related pages[edit]