Isoliquiritigenin is a phenolic chemical compound found in licorice.

Occurrence

Isoliquiritigenin occurs in some species of the genus Glycyrrhiza glabra (licorice).

Pharmacological properties

Isoliquiritigenin has various pharmacological properties and is also responsible for the corresponding properties of the plants it contains. In various studies, its effects included anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial agent, and antioxidant activities, and it also demonstrated targeted cancer therapy effects. In in vitro studies and some in vivo studies, isoliquiritigenin showed effects against breast cancer, colorectal carcinoma, ovarian carcinoma, bronchial carcinoma, and leukemia, among others. It also interferes with several cellular signaling pathways and has an anti-inflammatory effect, which may have applications in the treatment of inflammatory diseases.

Metabolism

The enzyme 6'-deoxychalcone synthase uses malonyl-CoA, 4-coumaroyl-CoA, NADPH, and H+ to produce CoA, isoliquiritigenin, CO2, NADP+, and H2O. The enzyme isoliquiritigenin 2'-O-methyltransferase further transforms isoliquiritigenin into 2'-O-methylisoliquiritigenin.

Mechanism of action

Isoliquiritigenin has been found to be a potent (65 times higher affinity than diazepam) GABA-A benzodiapine receptor positive allosteric modulator. It can target miR-301b/LRIG1 signaling pathways, resulting in the inhibition of melanoma growth in vitro.