Delphinidin: A Multifaceted Anthocyanidin With Therapeutic Potential in Chronic Diseases

Abstract

Delphinidin, a bioactive anthocyanidin found in pigmented fruits and vegetables, exhibits remarkable therapeutic potential due to its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-cancer properties. This review synthesizes current knowledge on delphinidin's structure, dietary sources, stability challenges, and mechanisms of action. As a potent antioxidant, it scavenges reactive oxygen species (ROS) and upregulates endogenous defenses via the Nrf2 pathway, mitigating oxidative stress in chronic diseases. Delphinidin suppresses inflammation by inhibiting NF-κB and MAPK signaling, reducing pro-inflammatory cytokines like TNF-α and IL-6. Its anti-cancer effects include apoptosis induction, cell cycle arrest, and inhibition of angiogenesis and metastasis through modulation of VEGF, MMPs, and PI3K/Akt pathways. Additionally, delphinidin demonstrates cardioprotective effects by enhancing endothelial function and reducing LDL oxidation, while its neuroprotective actions involve attenuating neuroinflammation and amyloid-β aggregation in neurodegenerative disorders. The compound also improves metabolic health by enhancing insulin sensitivity and inhibiting α-glucosidase. However, delphinidin's pH and thermal instability limit its clinical application, prompting research into encapsulation and nano-delivery systems to enhance bioavailability. This review underscores delphinidin's promise as a nutraceutical or adjunctive therapy while highlighting the need for further studies to validate its efficacy in humans and optimize delivery methods.