Molecular understanding and modern application of traditional medicines: triumphs and trials

Abstract

Traditional medicines provide fertile ground for modern drug development, but first they must pass along a pathway of discovery, isolation, and mechanistic studies before eventual deployment in the clinic. Here, we highlight the challenges along this route, focusing on the compounds artemisinin, triptolide, celastrol, capsaicin, and curcumin.

Figure 1. The Route from Traditional Medicine to Modern Drug

Shown are five traditional medicines—artemisinin, triptolide, celastrol, capsaicin, and curcumin—and the points in the pathway from ancient remedy to modern drug where they face the biggest hurdles.