chrysophanol

Chrysophanol is a natural anthraquinone derivative found in several plants, most notably in the genus *Rheum* (rhubarb). It is a key bioactive constituent of the traditional Chinese medicine formula Shenkang injection (SKI). Research indicates that chrysophanol exerts renoprotective effects by inhibiting the activation of the renin-angiotensin system (RAS) and the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway. Specifically, it has been shown to reduce the expression of Wnt1 and β-catenin, thereby suppressing downstream targets like Snail1, Twist, and MMP-7, which are involved in epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) and renal fibrosis. It is primarily investigated for its potential in treating chronic kidney disease and associated tubulointerstitial fibrosis.

Other names

1,8-dihydroxy-3-methylanthraquinonechrysophanic acid