Macelignan is a neuroprotective lingan isolated from nutmeg (Myristica fragrans) that protects dopaminergic neurons from inflammatory degeneration. Macelignans have been shown to possess a broad range of pharmacological properties, including anti-bacterial, antiinflammatory, and anti-cancer activity. It has also been demonstrated that macelignans have anti-diabetes, hepatoprotective, and more importantly, neuroprotective properties. Apparently, the neuroprotective effect of macelignan is mediated by PPARγ activation and arginase-1 expression. Macelignan inhibits LPS induced production of NO as well and inflammatory cytokines including TNF and IL- 1β in primary cultures of microglia. Macelignan reduced serum glucose, insulin, triglycerides, free fatty acid levels, and triglycerides levels in the skeletal muscle and liver of db/db mice. Furthermore, macelignan significantly improved glucose and insulin tolerance in these mice, and without altering food intake, their body weights were slightly reduced while weights of troglitazone-treated mice increased. Macelignan increased adiponectin expression in adipose tissue and serum, whereas the expression and serum levels of tumor necrosis factor-alpha and interleukin-6 decreased. Macelignan downregulated inflammatory gene expression in the liver and increased AMP-activated protein kinase activation in the skeletal muscle of db/db mice. Strikingly, macelignan reduced endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress and c-Jun NH2-terminal kinase activation in the liver and adipose tissue of db/db mice and subsequently increased insulin signaling.

Isobronyl acetate (an isomer of bornyl acetate) is a component of many essential oils, which was observed to be inhibitory to microorganisms. It was also shown to have sedative effect on mice after inhalation. Isobronyl acetate is mainly used in cosmetics as a flavor and fragrance agent.