Progress on Carnosic Acid as a Modulator of Oxidative Stress in Vivo / 中国药学杂志

ABSTRACT

Oxidative stress could destroy the structures and functions of many biological molecules (such as nucleic acids,proteins,lipids) and undermine many physiological activities,such as gene expression regulation,cell signal transduction,substance uptake and intracellular transport,thus leading to many tissue and organ pathological damages. Carnosic acid,rich in rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis L.),could retard or prevent oxidative stress by activating the cellular antioxidant system (such as Nrf2-Keap1,Sirt1 signaling pathway) or inhibiting pro-oxidant signaling pathways (such as NF-κB,AGEs,etc.) to scavenge reactive oxygen species. It exhibits favorable effects on the prevention and treatment of oxidative stress-related diseases involving nervous system,retina,cardiovascular,liver,etc. The modulation mechanisms of carnosic acid on these diseases are summarized in this review,which shall provide a reference for promoting the clinical applications of carnosic acid.