Kurarinone: From chemistry to pharmacological values-A review.

experimental studies and clinical disease models were prioritized, while non-primary sources and incomplete reports were excluded. KRN exhibited a broad pharmacological profile, including anticancer, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, antiviral, and organ-protective effects, driven by its capacity to orchestrate multiple signaling networks. Mechanistically, KRN regulated pivotal molecular pathways, such as NF-κB, MAPK, JAK2/STAT3, PI3K/Akt, Nrf2/HO-1, and caspase-dependent apoptosis, thereby modulating inflammatory responses, oxidative stress, and cell apoptosis. Biotransformation studies reveal rapid conversion into glucuronide and hydroxyl conjugates. pharmacokinetic evidence indicated poor oral bioavailability (less than 50%), extensive Phase II metabolism, and tissue-specific accumulation, particularly in hepatic compartments. While these characteristics may contribute to therapeutic action, dose-dependent hepatotoxicity has been reported, highlighting critical translational challenges and the need for formulation advances and safety optimization. Future research should emphasize pharmacokinetic-pharmacodynamic modeling, nano-delivery systems, toxicity profiling, and well-designed clinical studies to support its translational development.