Salidroside and inflammation-linked disorders: integrative insights into the pharmacological effects and mechanistic targets

Salidroside (SAL), a phenylpropanoid glycoside found in Rhodiola rosea L. roots, is one of the plant's most essential active components. Few studies have shown that it has many health advantages, particularly because it helps combat inflammation, prevent cell death, and protect cells from harm. Research indicated that SAL may protect cardiac myocytes from oxidative stress and enhance glucose uptake in skeletal muscle cells. It also significantly enhanced mitochondrial activity and prevented cell death in pheochromocytoma cells, SH-SY5Y neuroblastoma cells, and cardiomyocytes. Besides its advantages for cellular function, SAL is recognised for its protective effects on the heart and brain. Animal studies have shown efficacy in reducing lung damage induced by LPS and sepsis resulting from caecal ligation and puncture in murine models. SAL seems to enhance insulin resistance via activating a route that links mitochondria to AMPK, PI3K, Akt, and GSK-3β. Aqueous preparations of Rhodiola rosea have shown metabolic benefits by reducing blood glucose levels in streptozotocin-treated diabetic rats, an effect that is negated upon adrenal gland removal. The extensive array of pharmacological effects underscores the considerable therapeutic potential of SAL. Despite the well-documented advantages of SAL, research gaps persist regarding optimal dose, long-term safety, and comprehensive effectiveness comparisons in clinical environments. To assist researchers and clinicians in the biomedical sector in filling in the gaps in their knowledge and gaining a comprehensive picture of SAL's therapeutic applications and mechanisms, this review compiles the numerous results on these topics. It aims to simplify complicated material and highlight areas that need more investigation by integrating our present knowledge of SALs and their sources, biosynthesis, extraction, analysis, pharmacological effects, and molecular processes.