artesisiin

Artesisinin is a naturally occurring compound derived from the plant Artemisia annua, also known as sweet wormwood. It belongs to a class of compounds called sesquiterpene lactones and is the primary active component in traditional Chinese medicine treatments for malaria. Its discovery and subsequent development have revolutionized malaria treatment, particularly in regions where drug-resistant strains of the parasite have emerged.

The mechanism of action of artesisinin involves its peroxide bridge, which is thought to be activated by the malaria parasite's heme. This activation leads to the release of reactive oxygen species and carbon-centered radicals that damage parasite proteins and membranes, ultimately leading to parasite death. Artemisinin and its derivatives are rapidly acting and have a short half-life, which is why they are typically used in combination therapy.

Artemisinin-based combination therapies (ACTs) are now the recommended first-line treatment for uncomplicated Plasmodium falciparum malaria by the World Health Organization. ACTs combine an artemisinin derivative with a longer-acting partner drug. This combination ensures rapid clearance of parasites by the artemisinin component and prevents the development of resistance by eliminating any remaining parasites with the partner drug. Despite its effectiveness, concerns about potential artemisinin resistance are being monitored globally.