Nobiletin a Biologically Active Phytoconstituent: Systematic Review

Abstract Nobiletin is an abundant phytoconstituent having multiple pharmacological activities. Various citrus species like orange (Citrus sinensis), lemon (Citrus limon), grapefruit (Citrus paradisi) and tangerine (Citrus tangirina) having flavanones, flavones, flavon aglycon, and Polymethoxyflavones (Nobiletin & Tangeretin). Nobiletin (HMF); Hexamethoxyflavone {2-(3, 4)-dimethoxyphenyl)-5,6,7,8-tetramethoxychromen-4-one}is extracted from non-edible orange peel rich in polymethoxyflavones (PMFs). Many are suggesting Nobiletin as chemo-sensitizing agent induces nuclear retention of tumor suppressor protein and Tyrosinase inhibitor, inhibiting hepatitis B virus replication. It is also proposed that 2-aryl-4H-chromen-4-one derivative may be effective in Chikungunya Virus, and other suggested multiple activities. Citrus species are traditionally used in Ayurveda as immune modulator which is effective in viral disease because of their antioxidant properties. To study the ability as drug of an independent phyto-active Nobiletin (HMF) is under consideration, HMF is lipophilic in nature, its physiochemical properties may by enhanced by increasing water solubility for more bioavailable, and prospective as a therapeutic agent or as broad-spectrum antiviral. Graphical abstract