Molecular Signaling Pathways Behind the Biological Effects of Salvia Species Diterpenes in Neuropharmacology and Cardiology.
Phytotherapy research : PTR June 1, 2016 M Akaberi, M Iranshahi, S Mehri
This review examines the molecular signaling pathways of bioactive diterpenes from the genus Salvia, focusing on their therapeutic potential for nervous and cardiovascular diseases. The authors describe mechanisms including effects on apoptosis, oxidative stress, amyloid beta accumulation, and tau phosphorylation that may underlie anti-Alzheimer properties. They note neuropharmacological actions via benzodiazepine and kappa opioid receptors, and neuroprotective effects of specific diterpenes such as tanshinone IIA, salvinorin A, cryptotanshinone, and miltirone. Tanshinone IIA is highlighted for cardioprotective effects, including antiarrhythmic activity and benefits in myocardial infarction, attributed to free radical scavenging and modulation of NF-κB and MAPKs. The authors call for comprehensive clinical trials to evaluate these compounds as leads.