Rhododendron plants are abundant in flavonoid compounds, whose prominent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory physiological activities have attracted considerable attention.However, the application of related research in animal health maintenance and bodily protection, along with their underlying mechanisms, remains unclear.This ambiguity has constrained their translation into practical applications as physiological protective factors within animal husbandry.This study systematically reviewed relevant literature, identifying 17 Rhododendron flavonoids exhibiting significant antioxidant and antiinflammatory activity.The antioxidant effects of these flavonoids are primarily achieved through multiple pathways: direct scavenging of free radicals, inhibition of oxidative enzymes (such as NADPH oxidase and xanthine oxidase), chelation of metal ions, supply of hydrogen ions, enhancement of the antioxidant system, and regulation of endogenous antioxidant capacity via the Keap1-Nrf2/ARE and MAPKs signaling pathways.Meanwhile, their anti-inflammatory effects are mediated through four main mechanisms: inhibition of inflammatory mediator production, modulation of cytokines and their receptors, scavenging of reactive oxygen species, and regulation of cell signaling pathways (including NF-B and AP-1).To date, flavonoids have demonstrated significant efficacy in the treatment of various human diseases, including hypertension, atherosclerosis, cardiomyopathy, myocarditis, diabetes mellitus, and cancer.However, their potential in veterinary medicine has not been fully explored.This review summarizes recent advances in the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory physiological activities of Rhododendron flavonoids and their underlying mechanisms.It aims to provide scientific rationale for developing flavonoid-based physiological protective agents suitable for animals, thereby advancing their scientific application in animal health management and livestock production.This aligns with current priority areas in veterinary research.
Zhang et al. (Thu,) studied this question.