Publication:

Quercetin as a promising phytotherapeutic candidate in preeclampsia: a narrative review

Preeclampsia, a pregnancy specific hypertensive disorder, is one of the major cause of maternal and fetal morbidity and mortality globally. It occurs after 20 weeks of gestational period with high blood pressure and proteinuria, primarily caused by abnormal placental development with impaired endothelial function, and widespread inflammation. Current treatment strategies focus on the management of clinical symptoms of this disorder by using pharmaceutical agents like aspirin, Methyldopa, labetalol, hydralazine or nifedipine. But, these drugs cause various adverse effects on pregnancy due to which the researchers have started to explore the potential of several natural bioactive phytoconstituents to discover a safer and healthy alternative. One of these compounds is quercetin, a flavonol that exhibits significant antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and immune-regulating properties. Preclinical studies have revealed that it helps in maintaining endothelial balance by regulating many inflammatory mediators. Different innovative delivery methods such as nanoparticles and liposomes are being developed to improve its efficacy as a natural therapeutic. The present review will provide insight into the immunology of preeclampsia along with its management by using a multi- targeted and safe natural therapeutic agent i.e. quercetin which in future may be used as an augmented therapy aimed at improving the both maternal and child health.