Therapeutic potential of caffeic acid phenethyl ester and its anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects (Review)

Caffeic acid phenethyl ester (CAPE), a naturally occurring compound isolated from propolis extract, has been reported to have a number of biological and pharmacological properties, exerting antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anticarcinogenic, antibacterial and immunomodulatory effects. Recent <i>in vivo</i> and <i>in vitro</i> study findings have provided novel insights into the molecular mechanisms involved in the anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory activities of this natural compound. CAPE has been reported to have anti-inflammatory properties involving the inhibition of certain enzyme activities, such as xanthine oxidase, cyclooxygenase and nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) activation. Since inflammation and immune mechanisms play a crucial role in the onset of several inflammatory diseases, the inhibition of NF-κB represents a rationale for the development of novel and safe anti-inflammatory agents. The primary goal of the present review is to highlight the anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory activities of CAPE, and critically evaluate its potential therapeutic effects.