Diosgenin: A Potential Therapeutic Phytocompound for the Management of Atherosclerosis and Other Physiological Disorders

The present study is aimed to explore the therapeutic attributes of diosgenin against atherosclerosis and associated health disorder. Side effects associated with synthetic drugs for the treatment and management of diseases worldwide have necessitated scientists to investigate and evaluate the therapeutic potential of phytochemicals and their pharmacological activities. Plants including Smilax China, Dioscorea alata, and the Trigonella foenum graecum are rich sources of diosgenin. In addition to being a crucial component in the creation of several steroidal medications, this bioactive phytochemical has shown great promise in the treatment of a wide range of diseases, including cancer, hypercholesterolemia, inflammation, and multiple infections. Diosgenin can reduce hyperlipidemia by lowering the amount of low-density lipoproteins, interfering with the absorption of cholesterol and increasing its excretion. Diosgenin inhibits the expression of NPCIL1 receptor, LXR-alpha, HMG CoA and SRB1, increases expression of ABC G5/G8 transporters to prevent dietary cholesterol accumulation in the body. Diosgenin exhibits antithrombotic activity by inhibiting platelet activation, and modulating anti coagulation by significantly decreasing factor Viii activity. Diosgenin inhibits the oxidation of LDLs, hence preventing atherosclerosis. It also possesses antithrombotic activity by inhibiting pancreatic lipase activity. Diosgenin provides anti-inflammatory benefits to the human body. It inhibits inflammatory markers including Interlukin-1 beta (IL-1β), Tumor necrosis factor – alpha (TNF-α), Nitric Oxide and cytokines. Moreover, it promotes the synthesis of antioxidant enzymes such as glutathione peroxidase and superoxide dismutase. By modifying the IKKβ pathway, it reduces endothelial damage linked to insulin resistance. This review discusses the recent advancements to explore diosgenin potential in reducing atherosclerotic cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, cancer, inflammation, clinical application, pharmacokinetics underlying mechanism with existing scientific evidences.