Dibenzocyclooctadiene Lignans from Schisandra chinensis with Anti-Inflammatory Effects.

Schisandra chinensis (Schisandraceae) is a medicinal plant widely used in traditional Chinese medicine. Under the name Wu Wei Zi, it is used to treat many diseases, especially as a stimulant, adaptogen, and hepatoprotective. Dibenzocyclooctadiene lignans are the main compounds responsible for the effect of S. chinensis. As a part of ongoing studies to identify and evaluate anti-inflammatory natural compounds, we isolated a series of dibenzocyclooctadiene lignans and evaluated their biological activity. Furthermore, we isolated new sesquiterpene 7,7-dimethyl-11-methylidenespiro[5.5]undec-2-ene-3-carboxylic acid. Selected dibenzocyclooctadiene lignans were tested to assess their anti-inflammatory potential in LPS-stimulated monocytes by monitoring their anti-NF-κB activity, antioxidant activity in CAA assay, and their effect on gap junction intercellular communication in WB-ras cells. Some S. chinensis lignans showed antioxidant activity in CAA mode and affected the gap junction intercellular communication. The anti-inflammatory activity was proven for (-)-gomisin N, (+)-γ-schisandrin, rubrisandrin A, and (-)-gomisin J.

Schisandra chinensis and its phytotherapeutical applications.

Schisandra (Schisandra chinensis) has been used for centuries as a plant of traditional Chinese medicine. Its biological activity and pharmacological use are associated with dibenzocyclooctadiene lignans, while specific polysaccharides may also be involved. The lignans of schisandra are genus-specific. Their activity has been investigated in hundreds of studies that have confirmed adaptogenic effects, central nervous system stimulation, hepatoprotective effects and potential anticancer potential. This summary review of the literature synthesizes the current state-of-the-art in research on bioactivities of schisandra constituents, description of folk use of extracts, overview of clinical studies and additional information on in vitro tests bringing insight into mechanisms of action.