Research progress on phytochemistry and pharmacology of Staphylea arguta (Lindl.) Byng & Christenh. and prediction of quality markers: a review.

BACKGROUND

Staphylea arguta (Lindl.) Byng & Christenh. [Staphyleaceae] (Staphylea arguta), a tree or shrub species belonging to the Staphyleaceae family, is widely distributed in subtropical regions of China, particularly in Jiangxi Province, where it is recognized as a geo-authentic botanical drug. It thrives in humid, shaded mountainous areas at elevations of 400-700 m. Traditionally, it has been used for treating breast abscesses, paralysis, sore throat, ulcers, and contusions. Despite its widespread use, systematic reviews on its phytochemistry and pharmacology are limited, and quality control remains challenging due to the lack of standardized markers. This review aims to summarize its metabolites and pharmacological activities, and predict potential quality markers (Q-markers) based on the "five principles" of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) quality control to address these research gaps.

METHODS

The metabolites and pharmacological activities of Staphylea arguta were reviewed using data retrieved from scientific databases, including PubMed, Web of Science, and China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI). The "five principles" of TCM Q-markers, which include kinship and chemical specificity, traditional medicinal properties, traditional efficacy, metabolites measurability, and different origins, were applied to identify potential candidates for Staphylea arguta.

RESULTS

This review summarizes 451 metabolites from Staphylea arguta, including flavonoids, terpenoids, volatile oils and other metabolites, which exhibit anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and immunomodulatory effects. In addition, it is predicted that ligustroflavone (no.23), rhoifolin (no.24), corosolic acid-28-O-β-D-glucopyranosyl ester (no.56), 23-hydroxyoleanolic acid (no.77), squalene (no.253), α-copaene (no.225), and additional identified metabolites can serve as Q-markers for Staphylea arguta.

CONCLUSION

This comprehensive review not only consolidates the existing knowledge on Staphylea arguta but also proposes a foundation for its quality standardization. The identified Q-markers will facilitate the development of a robust quality control system, ensuring the safety and efficacy of Staphylea arguta-based products for clinical use. This work is significant for promoting the rational utilization and further development of this medicinal resource.