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Crocin: A fighter against inflammation and pain
Mahmoud Hashemzaei1, Charalampos Mamoulakis2, Konstantinos Tsarouhas3
1Department of Pharmacodynamics and Toxicology, School of Pharmacy, Zabol University of Medical Sciences, Shahid Rajaii Street, Zabol, Iran.
Summary
Crocin, a natural compound, effectively reduces inflammation and pain by targeting key cellular pathways. Further clinical studies are needed to confirm its therapeutic potential in humans.
Area of Science:
- Pharmacology
- Natural Product Chemistry
- Inflammation Research
Background:
- Crocin is a water-soluble carotenoid with known antioxidant properties.
- Inflammation and pain are significant health concerns with complex underlying mechanisms.
Purpose of the Study:
- To systematically review the anti-inflammatory and anti-nociceptive effects of crocin.
- To identify the molecular pathways targeted by crocin in inflammatory conditions.
Main Methods:
- Systematic literature search of PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science databases up to March 2020.
- Inclusion of 104 studies for qualitative synthesis, adhering to PRISMA guidelines.
- Analysis of preclinical and limited human data on crocin's effects.
Main Results:
- Crocin demonstrates significant anti-inflammatory effects across various organs (lung, heart, brain, kidney) in preclinical models.
- Crocin inhibits reactive oxygen species production and pro-inflammatory cytokine secretion.
- Key mechanisms involve regulating the NF-κB pathway, including NF-κBp65 translocation, and modulating the PI3K/Akt pathway.
Conclusions:
- Crocin exhibits promising anti-inflammatory and anti-nociceptive properties, supported by extensive preclinical evidence.
- The NF-κB and PI3K/Akt pathways are identified as crucial targets for crocin's therapeutic action.
- Further clinical investigation is warranted to validate these findings in human subjects.
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