Biotechnological potential of aquatic plant ecdysteroids

Ecdysteroids are polyhydroxylated sterols initially identified in insects but later reported in numerous terrestrial plants, including Ajuga, Rhaponticum, and Cyanotis. These metabolites display diverse biological properties such as anabolic, adaptogenic, antioxidant, antimicrobial, and antitumor effects, making them highly relevant for pharmaceutical and nutraceutical applications. However, their occurrence in aquatic plants remains poorly studied. This review highlights the potential of fast-growing macrophytes, particularly Lemna minor (duckweed), as promising sources of ecdysteroids and other bioactive compounds including flavonoids and amino acids. Available literature is critically analyzed to compare existing findings and to assess their implications for food technology, pharmacy, and biotechnology. By integrating current evidence, this article positions Lemna minor as a model system for exploring aquatic plant-based metabolites. The review also outlines future research priorities and industrial opportunities for sustainable production of nutraceutical and pharmaceutical agents from aquatic sources.

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