Unraveling Riboflavin-Mediated Mitochondrial Modulation as a Therapeutic Pathway in Neurological Disorders: An...

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Mitochondrial Biology
• Nutritional Biochemistry

Background:

• Mitochondrial dysfunction is central to neurodegenerative diseases.
• Impaired mitochondrial dynamics (fission, fusion, biogenesis, mitophagy) drive neurological disorders.
• Mitochondrial modulation is a key therapeutic target for neurological conditions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To systematically review riboflavin's role in neurological interventions via mitochondrial modulation.
• To elucidate the molecular mechanisms underlying riboflavin's neuroprotective effects.
• To assess riboflavin's efficacy across various neurological conditions.

Main Methods:

• Systematic review of PubMed, Embase, Scopus, and Web of Science databases.
• Included 23 studies: 6 in vitro, 10 rodent models, 7 clinical trials.
• Evaluated riboflavin's effects in monogenic, neurodegenerative, demyelinating diseases, hypoxic injury, and pain/migraine.

Main Results:

• Riboflavin demonstrated potential in regulating oxidative stress in stroke and perinatal asphyxia, improving function.
• Preclinical studies showed riboflavin influences energy homeostasis, cell cycle, and mitochondrial dynamics.
• Riboflavin reduced alpha-synuclein in Parkinson's models, increased neurons in Alzheimer's models, and enhanced survival in other models.

Conclusions:

• Riboflavin may offer neuroprotection via redox modulation, gene regulation, and enhanced mitochondrial function.
• It supports neuronal metabolism and functional outcomes through flavin cofactors.
• Clinical applications require further definition, with established dosages only for stroke and migraine.