Title:Potential Anti-inflammatory Effects of Hesperidin from the Genus Citrus
VOLUME: 25 ISSUE: 37
Author(s):Silvia Tejada, Samuel Pinya, Miquel Martorell, Xavier Capó, Josep A. Tur, Antoni Pons and Antoni Sureda*
Affiliation:Experimental Laboratory, Research Unit, Son Llatzer Hospital, IUNICS, Ctra. Manacor km 4, E-07198, Palma de Mallorca, Balearic Islands, Group of Interdisciplinary Ecology (EI). Biology Department. University of the Balearic Islands, E-07122 Palma de Mallorca, Nutrition and Dietetics Department, School of Pharmacy, University of Concepcion, 4070386 Concepcion, VIII – Bio Bio Region, Research Group on Community Nutrition and Oxidative Stress, University of Balearic Islands, E-07122 Palma de Mallorca, Balearic Islands, Research Group on Community Nutrition and Oxidative Stress, University of Balearic Islands, E-07122 Palma de Mallorca, Balearic Islands, Research Group on Community Nutrition and Oxidative Stress, University of Balearic Islands, E-07122 Palma de Mallorca, Balearic Islands, Research Group on Community Nutrition and Oxidative Stress, University of Balearic Islands, E-07122 Palma de Mallorca, Balearic Islands
Keywords:Mediterranean diet, inflammation, cytokines, polyphenols, flavonoids.
Abstract:Background: The benefits of the Mediterranean diet for protecting against many diseases
are usually attributed to high consumption of certain foods, characterized by the presence of bioactive
substances such as polyphenols. Inflammation plays an important role in the pathogenesis of
numerous diseases such as arthritis, allergies or neurodegenerative disorders. Dietary polyphenols
constitute a large family of bioactive substances with potential beneficial effects against a broad
group of diseases. Citrus fruits and juices are a rich source of vitamin C and flavonoids, with a potential
effect on the inflammatory response.
Objective: The aim was to evidence the potential anti-inflammatory effects of the flavonoids hesperidin
for its possible therapeutic application against diverse pathologies.
Method: In the present review, available literature about the anti-inflammatory effects of hesperidin
is reported and discussed. Moreover, we also discuss the chemistry, bioavailability and proposed
mechanisms of action of hesperidin.
Results: Hesperidin is a flavonoid present in high concentration in citrus species and has numerous
biological properties, principally antioxidant and anti-inflammatory. Several studies have been performed
in order to evaluate the effects of hesperidin as anti-inflammatory agent using cellular and
animal models and few clinical trials. Hesperidin treatment decreased inflammatory mediators and
exerted significant antioxidant effects. The molecular basis for its anti-inflammatory effects seems to
be mediated by signalling pathways especially the nuclear factor κβ pathway.
Conclusion: Although hesperidin evidenced anti-inflammatory effects, the specific mechanism of
action is not completely known and additional studies are required for elucidation of the molecular
targets.
