Icariin Against Neurodegeneration: A Focus in Cell Death Pathways

International Journal of Molecular Sciences 2026 Open access

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Authors: Vinícius Rodrigues-Soares, Heitor Roque da Cruz, Gabriel Ferreira dos Santos, João Gabriel Restier, Pedro Castilho, Natan Giovanni Ferreira dos Santos, Elias Avgerino dos Santos, Daniel Souza Monteiro de Araújo, Karin da Costa Calaza, Rafael Brito
DOI: 10.3390/ijms27052247
Cited by: 1
References: 192

Abstract

Distinct molecular pathways of cell death drive the progression of neurological pathologies. Targeting the signaling cascades induced by oxidative stress and inflammation within these pathways is central to developing cytoprotective therapies against apoptosis, ferroptosis, and excitotoxicity. In recent years, the flavonoid icariin has emerged as a promising candidate, showing significant potential to intercept these specific cell death mechanisms. However, while the current literature highlights icariin's general neuroprotective effects, evidence regarding its precise interaction with distinct cell death modalities remains fragmented. This review synthesizes current knowledge to clarify the molecular logic by which icariin modulates these specific pathways in neurological models.

Fields of Study & Subjects

Medicinal Plant Pharmacodynamics Research Studies on Chitinases and Chitosanases GDF15 and Related Biomarkers

Publication details

Journal / source
International Journal of Molecular Sciences
Publisher
MDPI AG
Volume
27
Issue
5
Pages
2247–2247
Publication date
27 February 2026
Language
EN