A comprehensive review of distribution, traditional use, phytochemistry and anticancer of the genus Goniothalamus

Natural products (NPs) play a crucial role in drug discovery, with over 30% of recent FDA-approved drugs derived from them. Plants from the genus Goniothalamus, belonging to the Annonaceae family, have garnered significant interest as potential sources of active lead compounds. Over the past five decades, researchers have isolated 357 compounds from Goniothalamus species (GCs), which exhibit a wide range of pharmacological properties, including cytotoxicity, antibacterial, antifungal, antiplasmodial, antioxidant, and other activities. Notably, cytotoxicity stands out as the most prominent characteristic of GCs. This review also summarizes the structure-activity relationship (SAR) studies related to the cytotoxicity of GCs and their underlying mechanisms. In summary, our objective is to provide an overview of the research progress concerning the Goniothalamus genus, aiming to foster further development and utilization of these plants.