Abstract

Biologically Active Non-peptide Small Molecules from Medicinal Insects in Chinese Medicine

Insect and other animal medicines are key components of Traditional Chinese Medicine （TCM), with irreplaceable clinical value in treating intractable diseases. Affected by wildlife protection policies and hygienic standards, the number of animal medicines included in the Chinese Pharmacopoeia has decreased in recent years. Current studies on its active substances mostly focus on proteins and peptides, while the role of non-peptide small molecules remains unclear. This report introduces diverse active non-peptide small molecules in insect TCM, providing ideas for its scientific interpretation and rational utilization.