ruscogenin

Ruscogenin is a steroidal sapogenin primarily isolated from the plants *Ruscus aculeatus* (butcher’s broom) and *Ophiopogon japonicus*. It exhibits multiple pharmacological activities including anti-inflammatory, anti-thrombotic, vasoconstrictive, and circulation-enhancing effects[1][2][4][5]. Ruscogenin has been used in combination with local anesthetics for the treatment of hemorrhoids and for local anesthesia[2]. Its mechanisms of action include inhibition of nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) signaling pathways, suppression of intercellular adhesion molecule-1 (ICAM-1) expression, reduction in leukocyte migration and reactive oxygen species generation, as well as modulation of mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathways[1][4][7][8]. It also demonstrates vasoconstrictive properties via adrenergic mechanisms—possibly involving alpha-adrenergic receptors—and reduces cell permeability through anti-elastase activity[5]. Experimental studies suggest potential therapeutic applications in acute lung injury, pulmonary hypertension, cerebral ischemia-induced blood-brain barrier dysfunction after stroke, pancreatitis-related inflammation and edema reduction[1][7][8].

Other names

(1β,3β,25R)-Spirost-5-ene-1,3-diol