pennogenin 3-O-beta-chacotrioside

Pennogenin 3-O-beta-chacotrioside, also known as Polyphyllin VII, is a steroidal saponin isolated from the rhizomes of Paris polyphylla, a plant widely used in traditional Chinese medicine for its anti-cancer properties. It has been identified as a primary bioactive constituent in the ethanolic extract of P. polyphylla (EEPP) and is being investigated for its efficacy against colorectal cancer. The compound induces cell death in human colorectal carcinoma cells, such as the DLD-1 line, by upregulating autophagy markers. This mechanism of action is notably independent of p53 and caspase-3 activation, suggesting a non-apoptotic pathway for tumor suppression. Furthermore, pennogenin 3-O-beta-chacotrioside has demonstrated synergistic potential when used in combination with the chemotherapeutic drug doxorubicin, significantly enhancing cytotoxicity in tumor cells.