Luteolin for Alzheimer's Disease
Also known as: 3',4',5,7-Tetrahydroxyflavone
Luteolin is a potent mast cell stabilizer and NF-κB inhibitor targeting neuroinflammation in Alzheimer's.
Mechanism of Action
Luteolin inhibits mast cell activation and histamine release in the brain, suppresses NF-κB and NLRP3 inflammasome, inhibits BACE1, and crosses the BBB. It also inhibits CD38 (preserving NAD+) and activates Nrf2.
General mechanism: Flavone. Mast cell stabilizer, NF-κB/NLRP3 inhibitor, CK2 inhibitor, BACE1 inhibitor, Nrf2 activator. Crosses BBB.
Current Evidence
Preclinical AD models show reduced neuroinflammation and improved cognition. Phase II pilot in MCI showed improvement in attention and memory. Mast cell mechanism is underexplored in AD.
Clinical Status: Phase II pilot positive for MCI. Available as supplement.
Safety Profile
Very safe. Present in celery, peppers, parsley. Well-tolerated as supplement. No significant side effects.
Key Research Questions
- Does luteolin's mast cell stabilization uniquely benefit AD neuroinflammation?
- Can luteolin prevent AD in people with chronic neuroinflammation?