From the Research
Definition and Properties of Imperatorin
- Imperatorin is a naturally occurring furocoumarin derivative found in traditional Chinese medicine Angelica dahurica 1, 2, 3.
- It has been shown to exhibit multiple bioeffector functions, including anticancer, antihypertensive, and antidiabetic properties 1, 2, 4.
- Imperatorin has limited water solubility and better lipid solubility, making it suitable for formulation into lipid microspheres 5.
Biological Activities of Imperatorin
- Imperatorin has been shown to ameliorate ferroptotic cell death, inflammation, and renal fibrosis in a unilateral ureteral obstruction mouse model 1.
- It inhibits the proliferation and angiogenesis of human colon cancer cells by targeting HIF-1α via the mTOR/p70S6K/4E-BP1 and MAPK pathways 2.
- Imperatorin exhibits anticancer activities in human colon cancer cells via the caspase cascade 3.
- It has antitumor, antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and anticoagulant activities, and inhibits myocardial hypertrophy 5.
Pharmacological Effects and Potential Applications
- Imperatorin may provide potential cancer and cardiovascular protection by targeting its molecular mechanisms and pharmacological effects 4.
- Imperatorin lipid microspheres can enhance the bioavailability of imperatorin and inhibit the proliferation of MDA-MB-231 cells 5.
- Further studies are required to elucidate the entire spectrum of cytotoxic activities of imperatorin and to clarify its potential role in cancer and cardiovascular disease treatment 4.