Macleaya cordata extract (MCE) (MCE)

Macleaya cordata extract is a botanical mixture derived from the Plume Poppy, a plant native to East Asia. It is primarily composed of isoquinoline alkaloids, most notably sanguinarine and chelerythrine, which are responsible for its biological activity (Source: PubMed, PMID: 30582953). Although often discussed in pharmacological contexts, it is not a single molecular target but a complex substance containing multiple bioactive compounds. The extract is widely used as a natural antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory agent in veterinary medicine and animal feed (Source: EFSA Journal). Its components act by inhibiting the NF-kappaB signaling pathway and various enzymes like Na+/K+-ATPase (Source: PubChem). Research has explored its potential in treating inflammatory conditions and as an anticancer agent due to its ability to induce apoptosis in malignant cells. However, its use in humans is limited by significant safety concerns, including potential hepatotoxicity and genotoxicity associated with its primary alkaloid, sanguinarine (Source: NIH). In drug discovery, it serves as a source of chemical scaffolds rather than a specific therapeutic receptor or enzyme.

Other names

Plume poppy extractBocconia cordata extractSangrovitMacleaya cordata alkaloids

The extract exerts its effects through its constituent alkaloids, which inhibit the NF-kappaB signaling pathway, suppress pro-inflammatory cytokines such as TNF-alpha and IL-6, and interfere with the Na+/K+-ATPase pump.