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 in vivo and in vitro 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.