Abstract
Resveratrol is a phenolic phytochemical, with a stilbene backbone, derived from edible plants such as grape and peanut. It is a bioactive molecule with physiological effects on multiple organ systems. Its effects range from the neuroprotective to the nephroprotective, including cardiovascular, neuronal, and antineoplastic responses as a part of its broad spectrum of action. In this review, we examine the effects of resveratrol on the following organ systems: the central nervous system, including neurological pathology such as Parkinson's and Alzheimer's disease; the cardiovascular system, including disorders such as atherosclerosis, ischemia-reperfusion injury, and cardiomyocyte hypertrophy; the kidneys, including primary and secondary nephropathies and nephrolithiasis; multiple forms of cancer; and metabolic syndromes including diabetes. We emphasize commonalities in extracellular matrix protein alterations and intracellular signal transduction system induction following resveratrol treatment. We summarize the known anti-inflammatory, antioxidative, and cytoprotective effects of resveratrol across disparate organ systems. Additionally, we analyze the available literature regarding the pharmacokinetics of resveratrol formulations used in these studies. Finally, we critically examine select clinical trials documenting a lack of effect following resveratrol treatment.
Highlights
Resveratrol is a polyphenolic phytochemical that is biosynthesized by certain edible plants such as grape, peanut, and berry in response to phytogenic insults or pathogens
Its biosynthetic pathway begins with coumaroyl-CoA and 3-malonyl CoA and involves the enzyme stilbene synthase, which leads to a general biological yield of 50 to 400 μg resveratrol per g wet weight of leaves [1, 2]
The high resveratrol level in red wine was postulated as a factor in the “French Paradox”, where epidemiological data revealed an apparent disconnect between French patterns of low rates of cardiovascular disease despite their high saturated fat consumption
Summary
Resveratrol is a polyphenolic phytochemical that is biosynthesized by certain edible plants such as grape, peanut, and berry in response to phytogenic insults or pathogens. Based on its function in plants, resveratrol may be classified in the general category of low molecular weight compounds known as phytoalexins, which are phytochemicals possessing an antimicrobial and antioxidant function. Of nano- and microemulsion-based formulation systems for resveratrol These pharmaceutical formulation techniques enhance the bioavailability of this drug and prolong its duration of action. This review focuses on providing a broad overview of the experimental studies and clinical trials conducted to analyze the systemic anti-inflammatory, antioxidative multiorgan protective effects of resveratrol. We substantiate this information by summarizing molecular pharmacology mechanisms and specific second messenger pathways, along with pharmacokinetic data with reference to resveratrol
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call
