Target intelligence / Profile preview

Marinobufagenin (MBG)

Target
MBG
Molecular classification
Steroid hormone, Bufadienolide, Cardiotonic steroid, Endogenous Na^+/K^+-ATPase inhibitor
01

Overview

Marinobufagenin is an endogenous bufadienolide steroid, originally isolated from toad venom but present in humans as well. It is a potent inhibitor of sodium-potassium ATPase and acts mainly on the α1 isoform in renal and vascular tissue. By altering ionic gradients and signaling, it induces natriuresis, vasoconstriction, and positive inotropic effects, while also promoting cardiac and vascular fibrosis via distinct signaling pathways. MBG concentrations are elevated in a variety of cardiovascular and renal pathologies—including heart failure, chronic kidney disease, pre-eclampsia, and essential hypertension—and are considered both potential biomarkers and therapeutic targets in these conditions. Mineralocorticoid receptor antagonists can block MBG-induced fibrosis. MBG also influences inflammation, immune cell function, and may have roles in cancer and neurological processes. Safety concerns include its cardiotoxicity and contribution to organ fibrosis when present at elevated levels[2][4][5][7][8].

Other names
MarinobufaginMARINOBUFAGINMarinobufogenin470-42-8 (compound number)
02

Mechanism of action

Inhibition of Na^+/K^+-ATPase leading to altered ionic homeostasis, natriuresis, and vasoconstriction; Activation of intracellular signaling (MAPK, ROS); Fibrosis via inhibition of Fli1 transcription factor (and modification of collagen synthesis); Modulation of immune signaling; Modulation of mineralocorticoid receptor transcriptional activity (interference rather than activation)

03

Biological functions

Inhibits Na^+/K^+-ATPase (sodium-potassium pump)Natriuresis (regulation of sodium/water balance)VasoconstrictionInduces or modulates signaling cascades (e.g., MAPK, ROS)Promotes cardiac and vascular fibrosisInfluences cell proliferation, apoptosis, and differentiationInterferes with mineralocorticoid receptor functionModulates immune cell function and inflammatory responsesPotential role in neurological function via glial cell sodium channels
04

Disease associations

Cardiovascular disease (hypertension, heart failure, vascular fibrosis)Chronic kidney disease, including end-stage renal diseasePregnancy-related disorders (e.g., pre-eclampsia)Cancer (anti-gastric cancer effect, activity in glioma)Immune and inflammatory disordersPossible role in neurodegenerative processes
05

Safety considerations

Cardiotoxicity (via excessive inhibition of Na^+/K^+-ATPase)Promotes fibrosis in the heart and kidneyContributes to vascular stiffness and hypertensionMay worsen renal function in high levels
06

Interacting drugs

Mineralocorticoid receptor antagonists (MRAs; e.g., spironolactone, eplerenone): block MBG binding and attenuate fibrosis

1 more in the full profile.

07

Biomarkers

Plasma and urinary MBG levels: associated with progression of cardiovascular and renal disease, hypertension, preeclampsia, heart failure, and kidney failure

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