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Ursolic acid is a pentacyclic triterpene acid, used in cosmetics, that is also capable of inhibiting various types of cancer cells by inhibiting the STAT3 activation pathway and human fibrosarcoma cells by reducing the expression of matrix metalloproteinase-9 by acting through the glucocorticoid receptor. It may also decrease proliferation of cancer cells and induce apoptosis.
Ursolic acid is present in many plants, including apples, basil, bilberries, cranberries, elder flower, peppermint, rosemary, lavender, oregano, thyme, hawthorn, prunes. Apple peels contain large quantities of ursolic acid and related compounds.
Ursolic acid can serve as a starting material for synthesis of more potent bioactive derivatives, such as anti-tumor agents. It has been found to reduce muscle atrophy and to stimulate muscle growth in mice. Ursolic acid has potential use as a cardioprotective compound.
Usolic acid was found to be a weak aromatase inhibitor (IC 50 = 32 μm).
Other names for ursolic acid include, 3-beta-3-hydroxy-urs-12-ene-28-oic-acid, 3-β-hydroxy-urs-12-en-28-oic acid, urson, prunol, and malol.