Natural Source, Chemical Classification and Medicinal Application of the Stilbene-Type Compounds: A Review of Structural Modification Around Stilbene Scaffold

Stilbene-type compounds are vital plant secondary metabolites that are classified under polyphenols and generally exhibit significant biological activities, as well as potential health benefits. These compounds, prevalent in food sources and medicinal plants, are recognized for their complex structures and their roles in plant defense mechanisms against environmental stressors. Despite their beneficial properties, the natural stilbenes face limitations related to their bioavailability and solubility, highlighting the need for chemical modifications to enhance their therapeutic efficacy. Studies have focused on structural modifications of the stilbene scaffold, including the introduction of carbon-based fragments, aiming to improve the compounds’ stability, selectivity, and overall biological activities. The development of stilbene analogues through chemical modifications not only expands the library of valuable stilbene-type compounds but also holds promise for new therapeutic applications in combating chronic diseases. This review summarizes current knowledge on the sources, biological activities, and chemical modifications of stilbene compounds, emphasizing their potential in healthcare and nutrition.