Hecogenin and its derivates: A pharmacology review

• Published in: Biomedicine & pharmacotherapy Vol. 159; p. 114251
• Main Authors: Borges, Matheus Antônio da Hora, Passos, Fabiolla Rocha Santos, Quintans, Jullyana de Souza Siqueira, Azeredo, Francine Johansson
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: France Elsevier Masson SAS 01.03.2023; Elsevier
• Subjects: Cytokines - metabolism; Humans; Natural products; Pharmacological effect; Pre-clinical activity; Sapogenins - pharmacology; Saponins - pharmacology; Steroids - pharmacology; Natural products; Pre-clinical activity; Pharmacological effect
• ISSN: 0753-3322; 1950-6007
• DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2023.114251

Despite the several uses of drugs from natural compounds in the pharmaceutical industry, new molecules have been discovered and associated with pharmacological activities over the years. Hecogenin, a steroidal saponin, has been the subject of several studies due to reports of pharmacological activities. This study combines the articles published to date that show the pharmacological activity and the mechanism of action of hecogenin, its acetate, and its derivates. This compilation shows that the compounds can act in different pathologies that affect many systems of the human body. They showed pharmacological properties in inflammation, mediating cytokines, cells, and environment. Also, it participated in tumoral processes by pathways like PPGARγ, ERK½, and MMP-2 and showed antimicrobial effects against organisms like Candida and Aedes aegypti’s larvae. This review indicates that continuing studies with these molecules are essential once they have the potential to be a future drug. [Display omitted] •HEC and its derivates show biological activities in vitro and in vivo against different diseases.•The inhibition of targets such as PPARγ, ERK½, MMP-2, and HER can help slow tumor progression.•An anti-inflammatory activity through cellular and non-cellular components such as neutrophils and cytokines was noticed.•HEC and HA can be used as an alternative to opioids due to their antagonistic action without motor damage.