Paeoniflorin: a natural candidate for the treatment of metabolic diseases

The global prevalence of metabolic diseases (MetDs) is rising annually and poses a major challenge to public health. Paeoniflorin(PF), a naturally occurring phytochemical, considerably improves insulin sensitivity, glucose and lipid metabolism, bile acid metabolism, inflammation and oxidative stress. This article comprehensively reviews recent research on the role of PF in the treatment of six common MetDs: diabetes mellitus and its complications, non-alcoholic fatty liver, non-alcoholic steatohepatitis, atherosclerosis, cholestasis, and polycystic ovary syndrome, along with its potential molecular mechanisms. In addition, we summarize the pharmacological and toxicological properties of PF and propose strategies to enhance its bioavailability, opening new avenues for its clinical application. Overall, this study demonstrates that PF exhibits therapeutic potential against various MetDs and may serve as a promising candidate for the treatment of metabolic disorders.