Dietary Supplements as Modulators of the Nrf2 Pathway to Enhance Intracellular Antioxidant Responses and Protect Against Dyslipidemia-Associated Cardiovascular Complications

• Published in: Food reviews international Vol. 41; no. 5; pp. 1440 - 1468
• Main Authors: Mthembu, Sinenhlanhla X. H., Mazibuko-Mbeje, Sithandiwe E., Silvestri, Sonia, Orlando, Patrick, Nkambule, Bongani B., Muller, Christo J. F., Tiano, Luca, Dludla, Phiwayinkosi V.
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Philadelphia Taylor & Francis 04.07.2025; Taylor & Francis Ltd
• Subjects: Antioxidants; Bioactive compounds; Bioavailability; Biological activity; Biological properties; cardiovascular damage; Dietary supplements; Dyslipidemia; Functional foods & nutraceuticals; Intracellular; Metabolic disorders; nutraceutical compounds; Oxidative stress; type 2 diabetes
• ISSN: 8755-9129; 1525-6103
• DOI: 10.1080/87559129.2024.2449378

The market for dietary supplements has significantly grown due to their envisaged health benefits. These bioactive compounds are actively explored for their therapeutic benefits against vast metabolic complications due to their abundant antioxidant properties. Nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) modulation as a cytoprotective mechanism against oxidative stress-induced metabolic stress has garnered interest, particularly through its regulation by many dietary supplements. This review aims to evaluate and critically discuss the available evidence on the potential therapeutic effects of dietary supplements, including prominently used nutraceuticals against dyslipidemia-associated cardiovascular complications. Notably, this review highlights the potential of these bioactive compounds to modulate the Nrf2 pathway, enhancing intracellular antioxidants and providing protection against oxidative stress-induced complications. Beyond the value of preclinical evidence on the ability of these supplements to regulate the Nrf2 pathway and counteract oxidative damage, this review also incorporates clinical evidence supporting their therapeutic benefits in dyslipidemia-related cardiovascular conditions. Fundamental pharmacological aspects such as bioavailability and relevant biological properties are also discussed to inform further development of these bioactive compounds as potential nutraceuticals against metabolic diseases.