MYRICETIN: A NATURAL ANTIOXIDANT: THE MOLECULAR MECHANISMS OF ITS ACTIVITY AND ITS POTENTIAL FOR CLINICAL USE

Myricetin is a multifunctional bioactive compound classified among naturally occurring flavonols, drawing significant attention because of its broad molecular action profile in pathophysiological processes related to oxidative stress and inflammation. This book chapter provides a comprehensive analysis of myricetin, beginning with its chemical structure and addressing its bioavailability limitations, molecular targets, and therapeutic potential. The antioxidant properties of myricetin primarily stem from the activation of the Nrf2/ARE signaling cascade. In contrast, its anti-inflammatory potential is largely attributed to the inhibition of key signaling pathways, including the NF-kappa B, MAPK, and PI3K/ Akt pathways. In addition, myricetin plays a regulatory role in essential cellular events, such as programmed cell death (apoptosis), autophagy, and cell cycle progression, while simultaneously maintaining mitochondrial integrity and optimizing cellular energy metabolism. Through bidirectional interactions with the gut microbiota, myricetin also exerts indirect regulatory effects on systemic immune responses, metabolic control, and cardiovascular functions. Despite promising preclinical outcomes in oncological, metabolic, and neurodegenerative models, poor oral bioavailability and rapid metabolism remain significant pharmacokinetic barriers to clinical application. Consequently, novel pharmaceutical strategies such as nanocarrier systems, phospholipid complexes, and polymer-based formulations have gained increasing prominence. In conclusion, given its capacity to simultaneously modulate multiple cellular targets, low toxicity profile, and natural origin, myricetin has emerged as a compelling candidate for future biotherapeutic development, particularly in the context of personalized medicine.