The Natural Flavonoid Pinocembrin: Molecular Targets and Potential Therapeutic Applications

Mol Neurobiol. 2016 Apr;53(3):1794-1801. doi: 10.1007/s12035-015-9125-2. Epub 2015 Mar 7.

Abstract

Pinocembrin is a natural flavonoid compound extracted from honey, propolis, ginger roots, wild marjoram, and other plants. In preclinical studies, it has shown anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective effects as well as the ability to reduce reactive oxygen species, protect the blood-brain barrier, modulate mitochondrial function, and regulate apoptosis. Considering these pharmaceutical characteristics, pinocembrin has potential as a drug to treat ischemic stroke and other clinical conditions. In this review, we summarize its pharmacologic characteristics and discuss its mechanisms of action and potential therapeutic applications.

Keywords: Neuroinflammation; Neuroprotection; Pinocembrin; Stroke.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Flavanones / biosynthesis
  • Flavanones / pharmacokinetics
  • Flavanones / therapeutic use*
  • Flavonoids / biosynthesis
  • Flavonoids / pharmacokinetics
  • Flavonoids / therapeutic use*
  • Humans
  • Models, Biological
  • Neuroprotective Agents / pharmacokinetics
  • Neuroprotective Agents / therapeutic use*

Substances

  • Flavanones
  • Flavonoids
  • Neuroprotective Agents
  • pinocembrin