Rutin (Quercetin-3-rutinoside): A Comprehensive Review of its Anti-inflammatory and Anti-allergic Mechanisms, Molecular Targets, and Therapeutic Potential.
INTRODUCTION Rutin (quercetin-3-O-rutinoside) is a naturally occurring flavonol glycoside widely distributed in fruits, vegetables, and medicinal plants. Increasing evidence suggests that rutin possesses anti-inflammatory and anti-allergic properties through modulation of oxidative stress and immune signaling pathways. This review aimed to critically evaluate the molecular mechanisms, pharmacological activities, and therapeutic potential of rutin in inflammatory and allergic disorders. METHODS A comprehensive literature search was conducted using PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Google Scholar for studies published up to January 2025. Relevant in vitro, in vivo, and clinical studies investigating the anti-inflammatory and anti-allergic effects of rutin were selected according to predefined inclusion and exclusion criteria and systematically analyzed. RESULTS The reviewed studies demonstrated that rutin exerts anti-inflammatory effects by inhibiting Nuclear Factor-Kappa B (NF-κB) and Mitogen-Activated Protein Kinase (MAPK) signaling pathways, thereby reducing the production of pro-inflammatory mediators, including Tumor Necrosis Factor-Alpha (TNF-α), Interleukin-1 beta (IL-1β), and Interleukin-6 (IL-6). Rutin also activates the nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2/Heme Oxygenase-1 (Nrf2/HO-1) pathway, enhancing antioxidant defenses and reducing oxidative stress. In allergic conditions, rutin stabilizes mast cells, suppresses histamine release, decreases Immunoglobulin E (IgE)-mediated responses, and modulates immune-cell activation. DISCUSSION Although substantial preclinical evidence supports the therapeutic potential of rutin, limitations such as poor bioavailability, variability among experimental studies, and limited clinical validation remain significant challenges. CONCLUSION Rutin exhibits promising anti-inflammatory and anti-allergic activities through multitarget modulation of inflammatory, oxidative stress, and immune pathways. Further well-designed clinical studies and advanced drug-delivery strategies are required to facilitate its translation into clinical practice.