Abstract
Ribosome-inactivating proteins (RIPs) are enzymes that deadenylate nucleic acids and are broadly distributed in the plant kingdom. Many plants that contain RIPs are listed in the pharmacopoeias of folk medicine all over the world, mostly because of their toxicity. This review analyses the position occupied in traditional medicine by plants from which RIPs have been isolated. The overview starts from the antique age of the Mediterranean area with ancient Egypt, followed by the Greek and Roman classic period. Then, the ancient oriental civilizations of China and India are evaluated. More recently, Unani medicine and European folk medicine are examined. Finally, the African and American folk medicines are taken into consideration. In conclusion, a list of RIP-expressing plants, which have been used in folk medicine, is provided with the geographical distribution and the prescriptions that are recommended by traditional healers. Some final considerations are provided on the present utilization of such herbal treatments, both in developing and developed countries, often in the absence of scientific validation. The most promising prospect for the medicinal use of RIP-expressing plants is the conjugation of purified RIPs to antibodies that recognise tumour antigens for cancer therapy.
Highlights
Toxic substances, coming from either the mineral, vegetal or animal kingdom, have been frequently used for medical purposes since the earliest times
ribosome-inactivating proteins (RIPs)-expressing plants, which have been used in folk medicine, is provided with the geographical distribution and the prescriptions that are recommended by traditional healers
A decoction of mistletoe fruits and leaves was recommended for the treatment of many different affections [97]. This traditional medicine is still practiced among Islamic populations and many of the herbal remedies above listed are still recommended in Oriental and Middle East countries, as well as in Africa
Summary
Toxic substances, coming from either the mineral, vegetal or animal kingdom, have been frequently used for medical purposes since the earliest times. Traditional medicine is based primarily on the use of plants, often taking advantage of those that are known for their toxicity, as a source of remedies for diseases that have always plagued humankind throughout the world. The knowledge of adverse events that arise from the consumption of some part of such toxic plants has its roots in very ancient time periods. This review is dedicated to the role in traditional medicine played by plants from which ribosome-inactivating proteins (RIPs) have been extracted. RIPs are enzymes that depurinate nucleic acids and are widely distributed in the plant kingdom and beyond, whose biological role is yet to be elucidated.
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
