Nobiletin Prevents Obesity-Related Complications and Neurological Disorders: An Overview of Preclinical and Clinical Studies

Nobiletin (NOB) chemically known as 5, 6, 7, 8, 3, 4-hexamethoxyflavone is a polymethoxylated flavonoid that is predominantly found in the peel of citrus fruits.  Animal studies and a limited number of clinical trials suggest that NOB has multifunctional biological activities such as protection against obesity and obesity related cardiometabolic disorders, neuroprotection, antidiabetic, anticancer, anti-allergy, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and free radical scavenging abilities. NOB and its metabolites have also displayed antibacterial and antiviral properties and inhibition of hepatic lipogenesis. This review is intended to discuss the pharmacological actions and therapeutic potential of NOB and its metabolites in the prevention of obesity and obesity associated health complications. Evidence obtained from animal studies and a limited number of clinical trials suggest that NOB may be a promising candidate for the prevention of obesity and obesity related disorders as well as non-communicable diseases. Further studies are needed to understand the mechanism of action of NOB at the cellular, genetic, and molecular levels.