Octacosanol and health benefits: Biological functions and mechanisms of action

Octacosanol is a widely distributed natural higher aliphatic alcohol that can be isolated and purified from rice bran, sugarcane, beeswax, insect wax, etc. Octacosanol exerts various biological effects, including anti-fatigue, anti-hypoxia, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antitumor, etc. Meanwhile, it has the effects of regulating the body's immune function and energy metabolism and has potential benefits for cardiovascular disease, cerebrovascular disorders, diabetes, Parkinson's disease, and others. Octacosanol is primarily responsible for regulating multiple signaling pathways, such as AMPK, PI3K/Akt, and MAPK/NF-κB, to achieve different physiological functions. This review systemically summarized the progress in characterization, extraction and purification, biological functions, molecular mechanisms, and bioavailability of octacosanol. This study will provide a reference for many investigators to further explore the physiological functions of higher aliphatic alcohols and apply them as supplements in functional foods.