Insect hormones from plants? Even useful for humans!
Ecdysteroids, the molting hormones of arthropods, are also found in relatively high concentrations in a few plant species, where they presumably contribute to the repellence of insect predators. The biological activity of ecdysteroids for the human organism has hardly been investigated so far. IPB scientists and an international team have now for the first time analyzed 20 different plant-based ecdysteroids with regard to their enzyme-inhibiting properties. They found several compounds that are able to inhibit enzymes such as acetylcholinesterases, tyrosinases and α-amylases to a considerable extent and can therefore be used to treat numerous diseases including Alzheimer's disease, diabetes and hyperpigmentation. All tested compounds were also subjected to further pharmacokinetic calculations. For example, the scientists determined the ADMET properties of the substances, which allow a prediction of their fate in the human organism; starting with the uptake of the active substances, through their distribution and metabolism, to their excretion and toxicity. Based on these evaluations, the scientists conclude that most of the tested compounds have reasonable pharmacodynamic and pharmacokinetic properties; nonetheless, their toxicity should be carefully monitored during use.
