Naringenin and the Liver

Naringenin (NAR), a flavanone, occurs almost exclusively in citrus fruits and is the most abundant flavonoid in these vegetables. It has been shown to possess antioxidant, antiproliferative, antitussive, and interesting hepatoprotective properties. Recent studies indicate that NAR possesses several beneficial effects on the liver on carbon tetrachloride, alcohol, and heavy metals intoxication, among others; these results can be explained partially by its antioxidant effects. In addition, NAR also shows inhibitory effects on profibrogenic signaling pathways. This chapter discusses the biological properties of NAR on human liver diseases, as well as on experimental models of liver injury and the possible action mechanism of NAR as antinecrotic, antiinflammatory, and antifibrotic agent.