Naringenin: A Promising Immunomodulator for Anti-inflammatory, Neuroprotective and Anti-cancer Applications
Sarita Solanki, Himangi Vig, Nidhi Khatri, Bhanu Pratap Singh, Mohammad Shahid Khan, Manish Devgun, Pranay Wal, Ankita Wal
Abstract
BACKGROUND: Inflammatory, immune, and neurodegenerative diseases constitute a category of persistent and debilitating conditions affecting millions worldwide, with intertwined pathophysiological pathways. Recent research has spotlighted naturally occurring compounds like naringenin for potential therapeutic applications across multiple ailments. OBJECTIVES: This review offers an encompassing exploration of naringenin's anti-inflammatory, immune-protective, and neuroprotective mechanisms, elucidating its pharmacological targets, signal transduction pathways, safety profile, and insights from clinical investigations. METHODS: search engines such as PubMed and Google Scholar. Content from reputable publishers including Bentham Science, Taylor and Francis, Nature, PLOS ONE, among others, was referenced. RESULTS: Naringenin exhibits substantial anti-inflammatory effects by restraining the NF-κB signaling pathway. It activates Nrf2, renowned for its anti-inflammatory properties, inducing the release of hemeoxynase-1 by macrophages. Furthermore, naringenin treatment downregulates the expression of Th1 cytokines and inflammatory mediators. It also impedes xanthine oxidase, counteracts reactive oxygen species (ROS), scavenges superoxide radicals, mitigates the accessibility of oxygen-induced K+ erythrocytes, and reduces lipid peroxidation. Naringenin's antioxidant prowess holds promise for addressing neurological conditions. CONCLUSION: Extensive research has been undertaken to establish the anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory, and neuroprotective attributes of naringenin across various medical domains, lending credence to its pharmacological utility. The principal obstacle to naringenin's adoption as a therapeutic agent remains the dearth of in vivo data. Efforts should focus on rendering naringenin delivery patient-friendly, economically viable, and technologically advanced.