Phytochemical compounds for treating hyperuricemia associated with gout: a systematic review

Area of Science:

• Metabolic disorders
• Pharmacology
• Natural product chemistry

Background:

• Gout is a metabolic disorder caused by high uric acid (UA) levels, leading to urate crystal deposition.
• Hyperuricemia (HUA) is the primary cause of gout and presents a significant global health challenge.
• Current treatments for gouty HUA have limitations, including adverse effects and variable efficacy.

Purpose of the Study:

• To systematically review phytochemical compounds as alternative treatments for HUA associated with gout.
• To examine the mechanisms of action of these phytochemicals in managing HUA.
• To identify novel, safer, and more effective compounds for gout treatment.

Main Methods:

• Systematic literature search for studies evaluating phytochemicals for HUA reduction.
• Analysis of 100 selected studies from over 800 reviewed articles.
• Inclusion of studies utilizing experimental models to assess phytochemical efficacy.

Main Results:

• Fifty phytochemicals were identified as potentially effective in managing HUA and gout.
• Many phytochemicals demonstrated multiple beneficial mechanisms of action.
• Experimental models confirmed the therapeutic potential of various plant-derived compounds.

Conclusions:

• Phytochemicals represent a promising avenue for developing novel gout therapies.
• Further research into these compounds may lead to safer and more effective treatments for HUA.
• This review provides a foundation for future drug discovery in gout management.