Systemic Approach in Determining the Role of Bioactive Compounds

Abstract

Biosystems theory provides a useful framework for describing the biological role of bioactive compounds. Each functioning biosystem must adapt to and, to a certain degree, possess mechanisms or means to control both intra- and extra-­organism conditions, “purpose”. The organism must have the capabilities to change itself or the external environment, including community function, to achieve a purpose at the highest possible level. In general under adverse conditions, an organism is forced to renounce the purposes of higher level and to fulfill the purposes of a lower level. The achievement of higher level purposes depends on the production of natural bioactive compounds (adaptogens). The role of bioactive compounds is discussed herein from the point of general concept of biosystems, their resistance, and their adaptation to adverse conditions. Utilization of the concept of a biosystem will provide a clearer understanding of the role of bioactive compounds in the sustenance of an individual redox state and to predict new functions and properties of the organisms and their bioactive compounds.