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Phytochemicals targeting NAFLD through modulating the dual function of forkhead box O1 (FOXO1) transcription factor
Usman Sabir1, Hafiz Muhammad Irfan2, Alamgeer3
1Department of Pharmacology, College of Pharmacy, University of Sargodha, Sargodha, Pakistan.
Abstract:
Literature evidence reveals that natural compounds are potential candidates for ameliorating obesity-associated non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) by targeting forkhead box O1 (FOXO1) transcription factor. FOXO1 has a dual and complex role in regulating both increase and decrease in lipid accumulation in hepatocytes and adipose tissues (AT) at different stages of NAFLD. In insulin resistance (IR), it is constitutively expressed, resulting in increased hepatic glucose output and lipid metabolism irregularity. The studies on different phytochemicals indicate that dysregulation of FOXO1 causes disturbance in cellular nutrients homeostasis, and the natural entities have an enduring impact on the mitigation of these abnormalities. The current review communicates and evaluates certain phytochemicals through different search engines, targeting FOXO1 and its downstream cellular pathways to find lead compounds as potential therapeutic agents for treating NAFLD and related metabolic disorders. The findings of this review confirm that polyphenols, flavonoids, alkaloids, terpenoids, and anthocyanins are capable of modulating FOXO1 and associated signaling pathways, and they are potential therapeutic agents for NAFLD and related complications. HIGHLIGHTS: • FOXO1 has the potential to be targeted by novel drugs from natural sources for the treatment of NAFLD and obesity. • FOXO1 regulates cellular autophagy, inflammation, oxidative stress, and lipogenesis through alternative mechanisms. • Phytochemicals treat NAFLD by acting on FOXO1 or SREBP1c and PPARγ transcription factor signaling pathways.
Insights
Natural compounds targeting the FOXO1 transcription factor show promise for treating obesity-linked non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). These phytochemicals help regulate lipid metabolism and restore nutrient balance, offering potential therapeutic benefits.
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry
- Pharmacology
- Hepatology
Background:
- Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a growing health concern linked to obesity and metabolic disorders.
- The forkhead box O1 (FOXO1) transcription factor plays a complex role in lipid accumulation and insulin resistance in NAFLD.
- Dysregulation of FOXO1 disrupts cellular nutrient homeostasis, contributing to NAFLD progression.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review and evaluate phytochemicals that target FOXO1 and its downstream pathways for NAFLD treatment.
- To identify natural compounds with therapeutic potential for NAFLD and related metabolic conditions.
- To explore the mechanisms by which natural compounds modulate FOXO1 activity in the context of NAFLD.
Main Methods:
- Systematic literature search using various search engines.
- Analysis of studies focusing on phytochemicals targeting FOXO1 and its associated cellular pathways.
- Evaluation of the impact of natural compounds on lipid metabolism, inflammation, and oxidative stress in NAFLD models.
Main Results:
- Polyphenols, flavonoids, alkaloids, terpenoids, and anthocyanins demonstrate the ability to modulate FOXO1 signaling.
- These phytochemicals can mitigate lipid accumulation, inflammation, and oxidative stress in NAFLD.
- Natural compounds effectively target FOXO1, SREBP1c, and PPARγ signaling pathways.
Conclusions:
- FOXO1 is a viable therapeutic target for novel drugs derived from natural sources for NAFLD and obesity.
- Phytochemicals offer a promising strategy for managing NAFLD by modulating FOXO1-mediated cellular processes.
- Natural compounds hold potential as therapeutic agents for NAFLD and associated metabolic complications.
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