Mangiferin: A xanthonoid with multipotent anti-inflammatory potential

Area of Science:

• Phytochemistry
• Pharmacology
• Molecular Biology

Background:

• Plant-derived small molecules are increasingly recognized for their medicinal benefits.
• Mangiferin, a C-glycosyl xanthone found in mangoes, is notable for its solubility and diverse bioactivities.
• Its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antidiabetic, and anticancer properties are subjects of extensive research.

Purpose of the Study:

• To comprehensively review the sources, structure, metabolism, and biological activities of mangiferin.
• To emphasize the underlying cellular signal transduction pathways involved in its effects.
• To provide an in-depth assessment of mangiferin's anti-inflammatory therapeutic potential.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of existing research on mangiferin.
• Analysis of mangiferin's chemical structure and its relation to bioactivity.
• Exploration of cellular signaling pathways, including transcription factors (NF-κB, Nrf-2) and inflammatory mediators (TNF-α, COX-2).

Main Results:

• Mangiferin possesses antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antidiabetic, anticancer, antimicrobial, analgesic, and immunomodulatory properties.
• Its C-glucosyl linkage and polyhydroxy groups contribute to free radical-scavenging activity.
• Mangiferin modulates key signaling pathways, underpinning its therapeutic potential.

Conclusions:

• Mangiferin demonstrates broad therapeutic applications due to its multifaceted biological activities.
• Its anti-inflammatory properties are particularly promising for future drug development.
• Mangiferin represents a potential candidate for novel therapeutic strategies.