Description
Emodin is an anthraquinone found in several sources, including the aloe plant, senna leaves, and rhubarb rhizomes. Emodin is most commonly known for its stimulant-laxative action, but also shows antioxidative, anticancer chemotherapeutic, and anti-angiogenic activity. This compound activates CFTR Cl- channels in the colon, potentially increasing fluid secretion and resulting in laxative activity. Emodin acts on a number of targets in cellular models of cancer, including p65lck, ERα, NF-κB, and mTORC2. Additionally, emodin induces apoptosis in vivo through disruption of the mitochondria membrane potential.