Nattokinase as an adjuvant therapeutic strategy for non-communicable diseases: a review of fibrinolytic, antithrombotic, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant effects
M. Granito, Lívia Alvarenga, Márcia Ribeiro, Priscila Carvalhosa, Thaysi Andrade, Cláudio Tinoco Mesquita, Milena Barcza Stockler‐Pinto, Denise Mafra, L. Cardozo
Abstract
INTRODUCTION: . Studies have shown that natto reduces the risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD) mortality due to its fibrinolytic and antithrombotic properties. A new field of studies also demonstrates that NK can mitigate molecular pathways related to inflammation and oxidative stress and can be considered an adjuvant strategy for use in many non-communicable diseases (NCDs). This paper is a narrative review of the literature. A search was conducted in PubMed and ScienceDirect up to July 2024. AREAS COVERED: This review discusses the possible effects of NK on mitigating the common complications of NCDs, such as inflammation and oxidative stress. In addition, it provides an update on the most addressed areas related to NK's fibrinolytic and antithrombotic activities. EXPERT OPINION: Due to the fibrinolytic and antithrombotic activity of nattokinase, and more recently added to the anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, this enzyme can be used as a new adjuvant therapeutic strategy to mitigate inflammation and oxidative stress in NCDs, including CVD.