1.Biological activity and modern trends in pharmaceutical application of Betulin: A review of nanotechnology-based topical formulations
Buyankhishig Puntsagnorov ; Munkhbayar Narankhuu ; Ariunaa Zundui
Mongolian Pharmacy and Pharmacology 2026;29(2):95-100
Introduction
Betulin, a pentacyclic triterpenoid abundant in the outer bark of birch trees (Betula pendula Roth.), has gained significant attention in pharmaceutical research due to its potent anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and skin-regenerative properties. However, its therapeutic application is severely hindered by its extreme lipophilicity and poor aqueous solubility, leading to low bioavailability. Conventional topical formulations often fail to deliver betulin across the skin’s lipid barrier, retaining it primarily in the stratum corneum. Furthermore, while betulin exhibits efficacy against Gram-positive bacteria (S. aureus, B. subtilis), recent studies indicate a lack of inhibitory effect on Gram-negative strains (E. coli), presenting a challenge in the comprehensive management of infected burn wounds.
To address these limitations, this study proposes a "dual-action" hybrid delivery system by integrating betulin with metallic nanoparticles (AgNPs and ZnO NPs) using nanotechnology-based platforms. These nano-structured systems—such as liposomes and nano-emulsions are designed to enhance the solubility of betulin, facilitate deep dermal penetration, and reduce systemic side effects. Simultaneously, the inclusion of silver and zinc oxide nanoparticles expands the antimicrobial spectrum to include Gram-negative pathogens and provides antiseptic synergy.
This innovative approach provides a robust scientific and technological framework for developing
next-generation dermatological products. By utilizing Mongolia's extensive birch forest resources,
this research contributes to the production of high-value, export-oriented pharmaceutical
innovations that serve as advanced alternatives to imported wound-care treatments.
2.Review of the study on the bark of white birch (Betula platyphylla Sukacz)
Lkhagvamaa Yondonperenlei ; Munkhbayar Narankhuu
Mongolian Pharmacy and Pharmacology 2025;26(1):76-80
Introduction
Birch trees are widely distributed across Asia and Europe. The biologically active compounds found in the bark of white birch (Betula platyphylla Sukacz) vary depending on the region’s climatic conditions. The betulin found in bark B. platyphylla Sukacz has attracted significant attention from researchers. Thus, the purpose of this study is to compile a review of information and research materials regarding the biologically active compounds in the bark of B. platyphylla and their medicinal effects. Studies have identified biologically active compounds in birch bark, including lupeol, betulin, betulin aldehyde, betulinic acid, betulonic aldehyde, betulonic acid, betulon, β-amyrin, oleanolic aldehyde, oleanolic acid, monolignol, acetyl ursolic acid, α, β-trans-bergamot, α-santalene, lignin, and others. Betulin and lupeol are found in the highest concentrations in the outer layers of the bark. In Mongolia, studies determined that extracting B. platyphylla bark with alkaline ethanol for 5 hours yielded 25% betulin and 5% lupeol. In traditional medicine, birch bark is used for treating abscesses, scabies, pneumonia, liver and gallbladder dysfunction, kidney inflammation, promoting bile and urine excretion, reducing swelling, stimulating hair growth, and removing freckles and spots. In our country, relatively few studies have been conducted on the bark of the B. platyphylla. Therefore, further studies on biologically active compounds such as flavonoids, phenolic compounds, and tannins are necessary
3.The study of the biologically active compound in the “Mqintan” and extraction of nanoparticles based on liquid extract
Anu-Erdene Batmunkh ; Munkhbayar Narankhuu ; Tuul Khalzaabaast
Mongolian Pharmacy and Pharmacology 2025;27(2):5-10
Introduction:
Liver disease accounts for two million deaths annually and is responsible for 4% of all deaths (1 out
of every 25 deaths worldwide); approximately two-thirds of all liver-related deaths occur in men. According to health statistics from Mongolia, digestive system disorders increased from 355.9 per 10,000 population in 2002 to 1027.8 in 2012 and are the second leading cause of population disease. In addition, the spread of liver disease is the first among digestive system diseases. The prevalence of liver disease increased from 24.5% in 2002 to 26.6% in 20221. The prevalence of liver disease is extremely high in our country, and due to this, the problem of diagnosis and treatment of liver disease is important. Therefore, in line with the high demand for drugs and prescriptions for liver disease, it is necessary to systematically conduct research on them and provide people with drugs of guaranteed quality and safety, which are proven and verified by modern scientific methods.
Methods:
The quantitative and qualitative analyses of Mqintan’s plant bioactive compounds were evaluated using
the Mongolian National Pharmacopeia technique. Silver nitrate nanoparticles using green synthesis methods based on water extract were synthesized
Conclusion
Mqintang’s raw materials met the requirements of the Mongolian National Pharmacopeia. It was
determined that water and ethanolic extracts of the Mqintang contain hydrolyzable tannins (HTs) and proanthocyanidins (PAs). We used an atomic force microscope (AFM) to determine the size of nanoparticles synthesized from the Mqintang extract, and a total of 5 nanoparticles were detected.
Result Analysis
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