Previous

Cardiac glycoside

Cardiac glycosides and their aglycones (rarely called Cardanolides, their actual chemical class) are a group of naturally occurring steroid-like compounds found in various plants, particularly in the milkweed family (Asclepiadaceae), in foxglove and oleander. They are spreaded into two main subclasses : Cardenolides (with a C5 lactonic side chain « enolide ») and Bufadienolides (with a C6 lactonic side chain « dienolide »). These compounds are known for their ability to strengthen heart muscle contractions and are commonly used in the treatment of heart failure. However, they are primarily known for their role as defensive compounds in plants, serving to deter herbivores and parasites. Some cardenolides have also been shown to have cytotoxic properties and are being studied for potential use in cancer treatment.

Cardiac glycoside