Platycodon grandiflorum (P. grandiflorum)

Platycodon grandiflorum, commonly known as the balloon flower or Jie Geng, is a perennial flowering plant species rather than a specific therapeutic target molecule such as a receptor or enzyme. In traditional medicine, its root (Platycodi Radix) is used as an expectorant and antitussive to treat various respiratory ailments including cough and bronchitis (Wikipedia, 2023). The pharmacological effects are attributed to a group of pentacyclic triterpenoid saponins known as platycosides, with Platycodin D identified as the most bioactive constituent (Nyakudya et al., 2014, Journal of Ethnopharmacology). These compounds exert anti-inflammatory effects by inhibiting NF-kappaB and MAPK signaling pathways and regulating mucin production in airway epithelial cells (Kim et al., 2014, Biomolecules & Therapeutics). Because it is a whole organism/source of multiple chemical entities rather than a singular protein or molecular target, it is classified as an incorrect entry for molecular-level target profiling.

Other names

Balloon flowerChinese bellflowerJie GengPlatycodi RadixPlatycodon rootKikiyo

As a botanical entity, it acts through multi-component synergy; primarily, its triterpenoid saponins (platycosides) stimulate bronchial secretions and modulate the NF-kappaB and MAP kinase signaling pathways to reduce inflammation and regulate MUC5AC mucin expression.