Recent Updates on the Neuroprotective Effects of Nobiletin in Neurological Disorders: From Molecular Targets to Clinical Prospects.

Background

Neurological disorders are a significant and increasing public health concern due to their multifactorial pathogenesis, progressive clinical course, and limited long-term effectiveness of current therapeutic strategies. Recent experimental and clinical studies have increasingly focused on bioactive natural compounds as potential modulators of neuroinflammation, oxidative stress and neuronal apoptosis - processes that play a central role in neurodegeneration. Of these, nobiletin (a polymethoxylated flavonoid found in citrus peels) has attracted particular attention thanks to its reported antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective properties in preclinical models.

Objective

We discuss the potential therapeutic role of nobiletin in neurological diseases, examining the relevant molecular mechanisms, preclinical findings, and emerging clinical data.

Methods

We searched the electronic databases PubMed, Scopus, and Embase to identify studies examining the therapeutic effects of nobiletin on neurological disorders published up to October 2025.

Results

This review discusses the neuroprotective actions of nobiletin, with particular attention to its anti-inflammatory, anti-apoptotic, and antioxidant activities and their involvement in major intracellular signaling pathways. In addition, available preclinical findings and emerging clinical data are examined to assess the therapeutic relevance of nobiletin in experimental and clinical models of neurological disorders.

Discussion

Experimental evidence suggests that nobiletin has neuroprotective properties that could reduce pathological processes associated with neurodegenerative disorders, such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's diseases. However, further well-designed studies are needed to clarify its mechanisms of action and determine whether these effects are beneficial in clinical practice, either as a standalone therapy or in combination with existing treatments.

Conclusion

Overall, the available evidence indicates that nobiletin may have beneficial effects on a wide range of neurological conditions, such as Parkinson's disease, Alzheimer's disease, stroke, epilepsy, depression, schizophrenia, multiple sclerosis, glioma, and sciatic nerve injury.