Article

Therapeutic potential of Artemisia annua and artemisinin in viral infections, cancer and global health advancements

B K RakhmanovStructural and functional genomics laboratory, Center of Genomics and Bioinformatics, Academy of Sciences of the Republic of Uzbekistan, Tashkent 111 215, UzbekistanDilshod E. UsmonovStructural and functional genomics laboratory, Center of Genomics and Bioinformatics, Academy of Sciences of the Republic of Uzbekistan, Tashkent 111 215, UzbekistanA S ImamkhodjaevaStructural and functional genomics laboratory, Center of Genomics and Bioinformatics, Academy of Sciences of the Republic of Uzbekistan, Tashkent 111 215, UzbekistanSaidakhon I ZakiryaevaSoil microbiology and biotechnology laboratory, Institute of Microbiology, Academy of Sciences of the Republic of Uzbekistan, Tashkent 100128, UzbekistanKhurshida A. UbaydullaevaStructural and functional genomics laboratory, Center of Genomics and Bioinformatics, Academy of Sciences of the Republic of Uzbekistan, Tashkent 111 215, UzbekistanShukhrat E. ShermatovStructural and functional genomics laboratory, Center of Genomics and Bioinformatics, Academy of Sciences of the Republic of Uzbekistan, Tashkent 111 215, UzbekistanMirzakamol S. AyubovStructural and functional genomics laboratory, Center of Genomics and Bioinformatics, Academy of Sciences of the Republic of Uzbekistan, Tashkent 111 215, UzbekistanZabardast T. BurievStructural and functional genomics laboratory, Center of Genomics and Bioinformatics, Academy of Sciences of the Republic of Uzbekistan, Tashkent 111 215, UzbekistanIbrokhim Y. AbdurakhmonovStructural and functional genomics laboratory, Center of Genomics and Bioinformatics, Academy of Sciences of the Republic of Uzbekistan, Tashkent 111 215, Uzbekistan

Plant Science Todayjournal2025en

ABI

Abstract

Artemisinin, originally derived from Artemisia annua as an antimalarial agent, has demonstrated broad therapeutic potential in recent years. This review aims to synthesize current research on artemisinin’s efficacy beyond malaria, with a focus on its antiviral, anticancer and immunomodulatory applications. Methodologically, the review integrates findings from peer-reviewed studies, clinical trials and bioengineering innovations to offer a comprehensive perspective on artemisinin’s mechanisms of action, therapeutic applications and advancements in production. Key findings highlight artemisinin’s effectiveness in cancer and viral infections (including COVID-19), with recent bioengineering innovations enhancing its production through genetic modifications in A. annua, transgenic plants and yeast. These advancements improve accessibility and underscore the need for further clinical research to establish artemisinin’s role as a broad-spectrum therapeutic.

Topics

Malaria Research and Control

Identifiers

DOI: 10.14719/pst.3111

Citations and references

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