Taxifolin: Approaches to Increase Water Solubility and Bioavailability

Taxifolin (TAX) (5,7,3',4'-tetrahydroxyflavanol, dihydroquercetin) belongs to the flavonoid family. TAX elicits a wide range of pharmacological effects, and for this reason, it is of high commercial interest as a flavonoid. The widespread use of TAX in medical practice is limited by the physicochemical properties of the compound and, in part, the related features of its pharmacokinetics: absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion. The purpose of this review is to provide an overview of technological methods that can be utilized to enhance the solubility of TAX, potentially increasing its bioavailability. The review describes various technological approaches: micronization, crystal engineering, self-microemulsifying systems, liposomes and their modifications, microemulsifying systems, phospholipid nanoparticles, inclusion complexes (clathrate generation), and chemical modification. Most of the approaches described in the review for improving the solubility and bioavailability of TAX have proven to be successful. Nanotechnologies are the most efficient means for improving the solubility and bioavailability of TAX. Developing new TAX substances with improved solubility and bioavailability holds promise as a basis for the development of innovative drugs.