Neurological disorders are becoming more common, and there is an intense search for molecules that can help treat them. Several natural components, especially those from the
flavonoid group, have shown promising results.
Ginkgetin is the first known
biflavonoid, a
flavonoid dimer isolated from ginkgo (Ginkgo biloba L.). Later, its occurrence was discovered in more than 20 different plant species, most of which are known for their use in
traditional medicine. Herein we have summarized the data on the neuroprotective potential of
ginkgetin. There is evidence of protection against neuronal damage caused by
ischemic strokes, neurotumors,
Alzheimer's disease (AD), and
Parkinson's disease (PD). Beneficial effects in
ischemic strokes have been demonstrated in animal studies in which injection of
ginkgetin before or after onset of the stoke showed protection from neuronal damage. AD protection has been the most studied to date. Possible mechanisms include inhibition of
reactive oxygen species, inhibition of β-
secretase, inhibition of Aβ fibril formation, amelioration of
inflammation, and antimicrobial activity.
Ginkgetin has also shown positive effects on the relief of PD symptoms in animal studies. Most of the available data are from in vitro or in vivo animal studies, where
ginkgetin showed promising results, and further clinical studies should be conducted.