Isoginkgetin: Advances on Resources, Bioactivity, and Pharmacology

Isoginkgetin (4′,4″-dimethylamentoflavone) is a dimeric flavonoid, isomer of the biflavonoid ginkgetin, after which it was named. It was first isolated from the leaves of ginkgo (Ginkgo biloba L.) and later from other plant sources, but its role in plants is still unknown. It is mainly known as a general pre-mRNA splicing inhibitor, and as such, it has been implicated in research as a new avenue for the development of new anticancer drugs. In addition to its potential role in cancer prevention, there is also information on its beneficial role in the treatment of neurodegenerative and cardiovascular diseases, as well as possible anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antimicrobial, especially antiviral, activity. Most of the current data are based on in silico or in vitro research. This chapter summarizes the information on the occurrence of isoginkgetin in different plant species and the current data on its possible pharmacological use and mechanism of action. We also provide further perspectives on isoginkgetin research.