Submission Tilte
Evidence-based Potential of Medicinal Plants and Phytochemicals for Degenerative Joint and Bone Diseases
Submission Abstract:
With the global aging population on the rise, degenerative joint and bone diseases such as osteoarthritis and osteoporosis have become increasingly common, affecting more than half of people over 60 years old. Against this backdrop, traditional medicinal plants and their secondary metabolites - such as flavonoids, alkaloids, coumarins, etc. - demonstrate significant therapeutic potential. For instance, salicylic acid, as the first natural COX-2 inhibitor used for osteoarthritis, demonstrates the practical value of natural substances in disease treatment.
Studies have shown that the occurrence of degenerative joint and bone diseases is closely related to the dysregulation of signaling pathways such as NF-κB, MAPK, and Wnt/β-catenin. The key factors in these pathways have become new targets for drug development. Therefore, in-depth exploration of the interaction between plant metabolites and these molecular mechanisms is of crucial importance for the development of new therapeutic strategies.
The objective of this Thematic Issue is centered around three main research directions: Firstly, to assess the activity of medicinal plants and phytochemicals in regulating the pathological processes of degenerative joint and bone diseases; Secondly, to identify the specific target sites to elucidate the mechanism; Thirdly, to promote their application in clinical and primary medical settings. At the same time, we welcome various types of submissions including in vitro and in vivo activity evaluations, component extraction and analysis, clinical research, and toxicological assessment, to jointly promote evidence-based natural drug research and provide safer and more effective treatment options for bone and joint health.