Health Benefits of Quercetin in Age-Related Diseases

Abstract

Polyphenols are the known group of phytochemicals that essentially consists of phenolic rings. These are the plant product present in varied fruits and vegetables. These secondary metabolites perform a protective function in plants from environmental and biological stress. When consumed as a human diet these are also known to prevent various age-associated diseases. Polyphenols are known to possess antioxidant properties and protect against oxidative stress. The literature survey was carried out using databases such as PubMed, Science direct and Springer. The research articles from last 10–12 years were selected for this review based on its relevancy with the topic. The articles selected was mainly focused on quercetin and its health benefits. The present review highlights the main functions of a flavonoid, quercetin. Quercetin is among the widely occurring polyphenol, found abundantly in nature. It is commonly present in different plant products. Onion is known to have the highest quantity of quercetin. This plant compound is possessed antioxidant properties and is considered to have a protective function against aging. It is known to be present in both free and conjugated forms. Quercetin has anti-oxidative, anti-inflammatory, anti-proliferative, anti-carcinogenic, anti-diabetic, and anti-viral properties. The molecule is lipophilic and can easily cross the BBB (Blood-Brain Barrier) and hence protects from neurodegenerative diseases. Various in vivo and in vitro studies have demonstrated the role of quercetin and here a detailed review of quercetin as a curative agent in neurodegeneration, diabetes, cancer, and inflammation has been carried out. Studies have proved that quercetin plays a crucial role in the prevention of age-related disorders. Quercetin is a potent antioxidant which is currently being used in various pharmaceuticals. Properties of quercetin can be further explored in various other disorders. Nanoformulations and liposomal formulations of quercetin can be made to treat other age associated diseases.

Phytochemical Composition, Antioxidant, Antibacterial, and Enzyme Inhibitory Activities of Various Organic Extracts from Apocynum hendersonii (Hook.f.) Woodson

“…Injection of L-fucose in rabbits resulted in increased production of vitamin C and promoted body defense against oxidative stress [ 53 ]. Quercetin is currently used in various pharmaceuticals preparation as an antioxidant and in the treatment of age-associated diseases [ 54 ]. Its mechanism of action involves the regulation of glutathione (GSH).…”

Carob Antioxidants in Human Health: From Traditional Uses to Modern Pharmacology

“…For examples, Anand David AV, et al [169] published a general review about quercetin, and so did Salehi B, et al [170]. As for activity-focused review articles, Deepika, et al [171] recently published the benefi ts of quercetin in age-related diseases, while Nguyen TLA, et al [172] presented the antibacterial activity of this natural product.…”

Pharmacological Activity of Quercetin: An Updated Review

“…B -ring in the class of natural flavonoids is the main active site for antioxidant and reactive oxygen species (ROS) scavenging [ 4 ]. Flavonoids also play an important role in platelet aggregation, the peroxidation of lipids, and enhancing the biogenesis of mitochondria [ 5 ].…”