Artocarpus Heterophyllus (Jackfruit): anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Literature review

Abstract

Introduction: Artocarpus heterophyllus Lam. also known by the English as Jackfruit or Yaca in Latin America, is a tree of the mulberry family (Moraceae), originating from various regions of India; however, it grows in tropical and subtropical zones in various parts of the world. Its study has been increasing due to its great nutritional value and pharmacological properties.

Objective: To elaborate a bibliographic review on the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties of Artocarpus Heterophyllus or Jackfruit.

Methodology: This review article is a retrospective descriptive observational retrospective literature review study. A systematic search was carried out based on evidence and studies of updated and relevant articles of experimental nature that can be found in virtual journals such as: Medigraphic, SciELO, Scopus, Elsevier and Cochrane.

Results: The potent anti-inflammatory activity of phenolic compounds, especially artocarpesin which suppressed nitric oxide (NO) and prostaglandin E2 produced by lipopolysaccharides, was evidenced through the down-regulation of cyclooxygenase 2. Several studies have confirmed that prenylflavones, along with other polysaccharides isolated from Jackfruit, have antioxidant properties of scavenging DPPH (1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl) and hydroxyl radicals, in addition to scavenging iron catalytic residues.

Conclusions: Phenolic compounds act directly on the production of NO, COX-2 and prostaglandin E2 produced by lipopolysaccharides; inhibiting proinflammatory mediators give us new therapeutic hope in inflammatory pathologies. Preniflavones and other compounds provide antioxidant activity by inhibiting lipid peroxidation