A systematic review on biosynthesis, bioactivities, and therapeutic potential of Spinosin

<p dir="ltr">Spinosin, a flavone <i>C</i>-glycoside commonly found in the Fabaceae family and other flowering plants, has gained increasing attention for its diverse bioactivities and therapeutic potential. Spinosin biosynthesis likely follows the shikimic acid pathway, involving key enzymes such as phenylalanine ammonia-lyase, cinnamate 4-hydroxylase (C4H), 4-coumarate-CoA ligase (4CL), and chalcone synthase. The primary source of spinosin is <i>Ziziphus jujuba</i> Mill. var. spinosa, chief traditional Chinese medicine recognized for its sedative and hypnotic properties, with increasing evidence supporting its role in treating neurological disorders. Recent studies reveal spinosin’s potential as an Alzheimer’s disease drug alongside its anti-inflammatory, hypoglycemic, cardioprotective, pigmentation, and anti-liver fibrosis effects. In vitro bioassays have highlighted its pharmacological properties, with less evidence from in vivo research, focusing on its effects on insulin resistance, sedation, cognitive improvement, and anti-cancer activity. This review provides a comprehensive exploration of spinosin in the context of its plant sources, biosynthesis, pharmacokinetics, bioactivity, toxicity, and safety. Such a compilation of literature identifies future prospects for the medicinal, agricultural, and biotechnological applications of spinosin to aid in maximizing its broader therapeutic effects.</p>