Formononetin: A Pathway to Protect Neurons

Formononetin (FMN), a phytoestrogen from the flavonoid family, was studied for its neuroprotective effects in various neurological conditions. It showed potential in traumatic brain injury (TBI) by reducing oxidative stress and inflammation, and in spinal cord injury (SCI) by improving recovery and reducing inflammation when used with carbon nanotubes and GelMA. In ischemic stroke models, FMN promoted neuronal differentiation and synaptic plasticity, and in cerebral ischemia reperfusion (I/R) injury, it enhanced angiogenesis and reduced apoptosis. In Alzheimer's disease (AD), FMN improved learning and memory in mice and promoted amyloid-β clearance. It also exhibited anticancer properties, promoting apoptosis and cell cycle arrest, with synergy when combined with chemotherapeutic agents. The document concluded that FMN was a promising candidate for drug development targeting central nervous system diseases, though further studies were needed to confirm its efficacy and safety.