18-beta-glycyrrhetinic acid (18β-GA)

18-beta-glycyrrhetinic acid (also known as Enoxolone) is a pentacyclic triterpenoid and the active metabolite of glycyrrhizin, the primary sweet component of licorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra) [3, 13]. It is not a biological target itself but rather a bioactive small molecule that acts on several therapeutic targets, most notably the enzyme 11-beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase (11β-HSD) [11, 19]. By inhibiting 11β-HSD type 2, it prevents the conversion of cortisol to cortisone, leading to mineralocorticoid effects such as sodium retention and hypertension [11, 26]. Additionally, it acts as an inhibitor of gap junctions and binds to the high mobility group box 1 (HMGB1) protein, contributing to its anti-inflammatory and anti-tumor properties [1, 8]. It is used clinically in topical formulations for skin conditions and has been studied for its hepatoprotective, anti-viral, and anti-fibrotic effects [2, 18].

Other names

EnoxoloneGlycyrrhetic acid3-beta-Hydroxy-11-oxo-olean-12-en-30-oic acidGlycyrrhetinUralenic acid

Inhibition of 11-beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type 2 (HSD11B2), inhibition of 11-beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type 1 (HSD11B1), inhibition of gap junctional intercellular communication, and binding to High Mobility Group Box 1 (HMGB1) protein.