Baicalein for ALS
Also known as: 5,6,7-Trihydroxyflavone, Scutellaria baicalensis extract
Baicalein's lipoxygenase inhibition and Nrf2 activation address neuroinflammation and oxidative stress in ALS.
Mechanism of Action
Baicalein inhibits 12/15-lipoxygenase, reducing pro-inflammatory lipid mediators in ALS spinal cord. It activates Nrf2 for motor neuron antioxidant defense and inhibits iron-dependent lipid peroxidation (ferroptosis) in motor neurons.
General mechanism: Flavone from Scutellaria. 12/15-LOX inhibitor, α-synuclein aggregation inhibitor, ferroptosis modulator, Nrf2 activator.
Current Evidence
Preclinical neuroprotection data. Anti-ferroptotic effects may be relevant to ALS motor neuron death. No ALS trials.
Clinical Status: Preclinical. Anti-ferroptotic mechanism emerging.
Safety Profile
Safe. Traditional medicine use. GI effects possible. May interact with iron metabolism at high doses.
Key Research Questions
- Does baicalein protect ALS motor neurons from ferroptotic death?
- Can baicalein's 12/15-LOX inhibition reduce ALS neuroinflammation?