Therapeutic applications of apigenin and its derivatives: micro and nano aspects

Antibacterial, antifungal, antiviral, antiparasitic, antioxidant, antiangiogenic, antitumor, antidiabetic, antihyperlipidemic, and antineurodegenerative properties have been indicated for various types of flavonoids and their derivatives. Apigenin as a flavonoid metabolite, a flavone, from the genus Apium related to the flavone class can be found in many plant species including Petroselinum crispum, Apium graveolens, and Matricaria recutita. Lower bioavailability and specificity are two main barriers to obtaining effective formulations. Application of micro and nanoformulations based on organic and inorganic materials can improve the bioavailability and specificity of apigenin and its derivatives such as apigenin 7-O-beta-d-glucoside, apigenin 7-glucoside-4’-trans-caffeate, and apigenin 7-glucoside-4’-p-coumarate. However, there are various limitations to getting suitable formulations in physiological conditions. In this regard, this review has addressed these issues according to recent studies.