Exploring the Phytochemistry, Signaling Pathways, and Mechanisms of Action of Tanacetum parthenium (L.) Sch.Bip.: A Comprehensive Literature Review

The traditional use of Tanacetum parthenium (L.) Sch.Bip., commonly known as feverfew, extends across various medical conditions, notably those associated with pain and inflammation. In alignment with the growing trend towards developing medications that target specific signaling pathways for enhanced efficacy and reduced side effects, extensive research has been conducted to investigate and validate the pharmacological effects of feverfew. Among its bioactive compounds, parthenolide stands out as the most potent, categorized as a germacranolide-type sesquiterpene lactone, and has been extensively studied in multiple investigations. Significantly, the anti-inflammatory properties of feverfew have been primarily attributed to its capacity to inhibit nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB), resulting in a reduction in pro-inflammatory cytokines like tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α). Furthermore, the anticancer properties of feverfew have been associated with the modulation of Mitogen-Activated Protein Kinase (MAPK) and NF-κB signaling pathways. This study further delves into the neuroprotective potential of feverfew, specifically in the management of conditions such as migraine headaches, epilepsy, and neuropathic pain through various mechanisms. The core objective of this study is to elucidate the phytochemical composition of feverfew, with a particular emphasis on understanding the molecular mechanisms and examining the signaling pathways that contribute to its pharmacological and therapeutic effects. Additionally, the safety, toxicity, and potential adverse effects of feverfew are comprehensively evaluated, with an overarching goal of providing valuable insights into the plant's potential for targeted and effective treatments.

Contact Allergy-Emerging Allergens and Public Health Impact

Contact allergy (sensitisation) and allergic contact dermatitis (ACD) resulting from it have a considerable public health impact. For the present review, all pertinent articles were systematically searched via Medline and Web of Science™; additionally, all available issues of the journals "Contact Dermatitis" and "Dermatitis" were manually searched, covering the years 2018-2019, thereby extending and re-focusing a previous similar review. New allergens, or previously described allergens found in a new exposure context or of other current importance, are described in sections according to substance classes, e.g., metals, preservatives, fragrances. As a common finding in many investigations, a lack of information on product composition has been noted, for instance, regarding a newly described allergen in canvas shoes (dimethylthiocarbamylbenzothiazole sulfide) and, most notably, absence of co-operation from manufacturers of glucose-monitoring devices and insulin pumps, respectively. These latter devices have been shown to cause severe ACD in a considerable number of diabetic patients caused by the liberation of isobornyl acrylate and N,N'-dimethylacrylamide, respectively, as demonstrated by an international collaboration between dermatologists and chemists. Improved and complete ingredient labelling for all types of products, and not just cosmetics, must be put on the legislative agenda.