opuntiol

Opuntiol is a natural pyrone derivative, specifically 4-hydroxy-6-(hydroxymethyl)-2H-pyran-2-one, isolated from plants of the *Opuntia* genus, commonly known as prickly pear cactus. It has been identified as a bioactive compound with significant anti-inflammatory and potential anti-cancer properties. In preclinical studies, opuntiol has demonstrated the ability to inhibit the growth of human glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) cells, such as the U87 cell line, by inducing apoptosis. Its mechanism of action involves the upregulation of active Caspase 3 expression, which leads to characteristic apoptotic changes including nuclear condensation and DNA fragmentation. While it shows promise as a therapeutic agent for aggressive and apoptosis-resistant tumors, it is currently in the early stages of research and has not yet progressed to clinical trials.

Other names

4-hydroxy-6-(hydroxymethyl)-2H-pyran-2-one6-hydroxymethyl-4-hydroxy-2-pyrone