Thymoquinone against infectious diseases: Perspectives in recent pandemics and future therapeutics

Area of Science:

• Pharmacology
• Natural Products Chemistry
• Infectious Diseases

Background:

• Emerging infectious diseases and pandemics pose significant global health challenges.
• Natural products are increasingly explored for their therapeutic potential against infections.
• Thymoquinone (TQ), a phytochemical from black seeds, exhibits diverse biological activities.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the existing literature on the efficacy of thymoquinone (TQ) against various infectious diseases.
• To critically evaluate the potential of TQ as a therapeutic agent for infectious diseases, including COVID-19.
• To discuss the current understanding and future directions for TQ research in infectious disease treatment.

Main Methods:

• Comprehensive literature search of scientific databases (PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, Google Scholar).
• Review and synthesis of in vitro and in vivo studies on thymoquinone's effects on infectious agents.
• Critical analysis of reported molecular mechanisms and therapeutic outcomes.

Main Results:

• Thymoquinone demonstrates broad-spectrum antimicrobial and antiviral activities.
• Evidence supports TQ's efficacy against tuberculosis, influenza, dengue, Ebola, Zika, hepatitis, malaria, HIV, SARS-CoV, and SARS-CoV-2.
• Molecular mechanisms underlying TQ's effects are partially elucidated but require further investigation.

Conclusions:

• Thymoquinone is a promising natural compound with significant potential for combating infectious diseases.
• TQ warrants further investigation as a lead compound for developing novel antiviral and antimicrobial therapies.
• Understanding TQ's mechanisms of action is crucial for optimizing its clinical application against emerging and re-emerging infections.