Rutoside

Rutoside, also known as rutin or quercetin-3-O-rutinoside, is a naturally occurring flavonoid glycoside found in various plants, including buckwheat, citrus fruits, and asparagus [2, 4]. It is widely recognized for its potent antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and vasoprotective properties [1, 3]. In a biological context, rutoside functions by scavenging free radicals, chelating metal ions, and inhibiting enzymes such as aldose reductase and cyclooxygenase [5, 11]. These actions contribute to its role in maintaining vascular integrity and reducing capillary permeability and fragility [1, 12]. Clinically, rutoside is primarily used to treat conditions associated with vascular dysfunction, such as chronic venous insufficiency, varicose veins, and hemorrhoids [7, 12]. It is also investigated for its potential neuroprotective and cardioprotective effects, often administered in combination with other agents like trypsin and bromelain to manage inflammation and edema [5, 13]. It should be noted that rutoside is a chemical compound (drug/supplement) rather than a biological target like a protein or receptor.

Other names

RutinQuercetin-3-O-rutinosideSophorinPhytomelinVitamin PBirutanEldrin

Rutoside acts as a potent antioxidant by scavenging reactive oxygen species (ROS) and chelating metal ions [1, 3]. It inhibits enzymes such as aldose reductase [11] and carbonyl reductase 1 (CBR1) [8], and modulates inflammatory pathways by reducing the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines like TNF-alpha and IL-6 [3, 6]. It also strengthens capillary walls by reducing permeability and fragility, likely through the stabilization of the basement membrane [1, 12].