Luteolin for ALS
Also known as: 3',4',5,7-Tetrahydroxyflavone
Luteolin's mast cell stabilization and anti-inflammatory effects may reduce non-cell-autonomous motor neuron toxicity.
Mechanism of Action
Luteolin stabilizes brain mast cells, suppresses microglial activation through NF-κB/JNK inhibition, and reduces pro-inflammatory cytokines damaging motor neurons. Its BBB penetrance enables CNS anti-inflammatory effects.
General mechanism: Flavone. Mast cell stabilizer, NF-κB/NLRP3 inhibitor, CK2 inhibitor, BACE1 inhibitor, Nrf2 activator. Crosses BBB.
Current Evidence
Preclinical neuroprotection data. Mast cell involvement in ALS is an emerging area. No ALS trials.
Clinical Status: Preclinical. MCI pilot trial informs dosing.
Safety Profile
Very safe. Present in celery, peppers, parsley. Well-tolerated as supplement. No significant side effects.
Key Research Questions
- Do brain mast cells contribute to ALS motor neuron damage?
- Can luteolin reduce ALS neuroinflammation via mast cell stabilization?