Pharmacological potential of bioactive compounds in Catharanthus roseus extract: A comprehensive review

Abstract

The pharmacological potential of bioactive compounds found in the plant, Catharanthus roseus, have diverse medicinal applications. Key constituents such as vinblastine and vincristine play an important role in cancer therapy due to their ability to disrupt microtubule function resulting in cell death in cancers such as neuroblastoma and leukemia. Beyond oncology, C. roseus extracts show promise as antidiabetic agents by regulating glucose metabolism and improving lipid profiles in animal models. The plant's antibacterial properties make it a potential candidate for combating infectious diseases, including those caused by multidrug-resistant pathogens. Moreover, compounds derived from C. roseus exhibit anti-inflammatory effects by modulating cytokine synthesis suggesting potential applications in treating inflammatory conditions. Recent research has uncovered potential neuroprotective properties opening avenues for neurodegenerative disorder treatments. There are currently challenges in refining extraction methods and enhancing component purity of the C. roseus extracts. Advancements in genetic engineering and high-performance liquid chromatography offer promising avenues for addressing these issues. CRISPR-Cas9 and machine learning are being explored to enhance alkaloid production and optimize cultivation conditions. Looking ahead, nanotechnology-based drug delivery systems hold the potential to enhance drug bioavailability and efficacy while reducing adverse effects. Additionally, exploring synergistic effects between these alkaloids and other compounds presents exciting possibilities in drug discovery. Catharanthus roseus emerges as a valuable reservoir of bioactive compounds with significant implications for pharmacology. Integrating traditional medicine with modern technologies promises to unlock new possibilities in drug development, potentially revolutionizing treatment strategies across various therapeutic domains.

Keywords: Anticancer; Antidiabetic; Bioactive compounds; Botanical; Catharanthus roseus; Pharmacological potential.

Schematic representation of Catharanthus roseus plant’s phytochemicals and diverse biological activities

Fig. 1

Chemical structures of a) vinblastine b) vincristine.

Fig. 2

Chemical structures of a) Kaempferol, b) Quercetin.

Fig. 3

Chemical structures of a) Caffeic acid, b) Chlorogenic acid.

Fig. 4

Chemical structures of a) Geraniol, b) Limonene.

Fig. 5

a) UV–vis spectroscopy of C. roseus extract b) Zone of inhibition of C. roseus leaf ethanolic extract by agar well diffusion method against fungi c) Antibacterial activity of C. roseus leaf extract by agar well diffusion method d) Antioxidant activity of methanol extract of C. roseus using DPPH method e) Estimation of antioxidant- Total flavonoids f) Estimation of antioxidant- Total phenols .

Fig. 6

Vinblastine treatment can reduce teratoma formation .