Rhein

The Uses of Rhein

Rhein is used to inhibit growth factor beta-1 induced plasminogen activator inhibitor-1 in endothelial cells. It acts as an antibacterial agent against Staphylococcus aureus. It is also used as a laxative. Further, it is employed as a pharmaceutical intermediate.

The Uses of Rhein

Found in the free state and as glucoside in Rheum spp, Polygonaceae (rhubarb) and in Senna leaves. A potential antioxidant resource: endophytic fungi from medicinal plants.

The Uses of Rhein

Rhein was used to induce necrosis-apoptosis switch in injured pancreatic acinar cells.

Definition

ChEBI: Rhein is a dihydroxyanthraquinone.

General Description

Yellow needles (from methanol) or yellow-brown powder.

Air & Water Reactions

Insoluble in water.

Reactivity Profile

Rhein forms a red potassium salt and a pink sodium salt.

Hazard

Low toxicity by ingestion.

Fire Hazard

Flash point data for Rhein are not available; however, Rhein is probably combustible.

Biochem/physiol Actions

Constituent that is enriched in rhubarb with anti-inflammatory, anti-osteoarthritic, and anti-cancer activity. It reduces IL-1β production and secretion, caspase-3 activity, inducible nitric oxide synthase activity, and phosphorylation of c-Jun and c-Jun NH2-terminal kinase (JNK).

Safety Profile

A poison by intravenous route. Low toxicity by ingestion. When heated to decomposition it emits acrid smoke and irritating vapors.

Storage

Store at -20°C