PHARMACOLOGICAL PROPERTIES OF GLYCYRRHETINIC ACID DERIVATIVES: CRITICAL ANALYSIS OF RECENT STUDIES

Abstract

Glycyrrhetinic acid (GA) is a pentacyclic triterpenoid obtained through the hydrolysis of glycyrrhizin, the major bioactive constituent of Glycyrrhiza glabra. During the last decade, extensive efforts have been devoted to the synthesis of glycyrrhetinic acid derivatives with improved pharmacological activities. The present study critically analyzes recent investigations published between 2020 and 2025 concerning the antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, hepatoprotective, and anticancer properties of glycyrrhetinic acid derivatives. Particular attention is given to structure–activity relationships and molecular mechanisms underlying biological effects. The reviewed evidence demonstrates that chemical modification of glycyrrhetinic acid significantly enhances therapeutic efficacy and broadens pharmacological applications. These derivatives represent promising lead compounds for the development of novel anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and anticancer agents.