Plant secondary metabolites exert therapeutic effects by modulating autophagy pathways

Modern research indicates that plant secondary metabolites possess pharmacological properties such as anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and antitumor effects. Most plant secondary metabolites hold significant research value for the treatment of human diseases. Current research extensively explores the potential mechanisms through which plant secondary metabolites exert therapeutic effects against various diseases, with one of the primary pathways involving their modulation of autophagy in relevant human cells and organelles, thereby inhibiting disease progression This review summarizes several categories of different plant secondary metabolites-including flavonoids, anthraquinones, coumarins and saponins-and elucidates their mechanisms in treating various diseases through autophagy regulation. This information contributes to the development and application of herbal medicines.