Publications

Diabetic anemia is a common and often under-recognized complication of diabetes mellitus, characterized by impaired erythropoiesis, reduced erythropoietin production, and systemic oxidative stress. This condition not only compromises oxygen delivery to peripheral tissues but also exacerbates neurodegenerative changes, contributing to cognitive decline and heightened vulnerability to neural dysfunction. Natural product-based antioxidants, including polyphenols, flavonoids, carotenoids, and terpenoids, have emerged as promising therapeutic agents due to their dual capacity to mitigate oxidative damage and modulate key signaling pathways involved in erythroid and neuronal health. These compounds act by scavenging reactive oxygen and nitrogen species, enhancing endogenous antioxidant defenses, stabilizing mitochondrial function, and regulating hypoxia-inducible factors to promote erythropoietin synthesis. Additionally, they exert neuroprotective effects by activating the Nrf2 pathway, reducing neuroinflammation, and preserving synaptic integrity. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the molecular mechanisms through which natural antioxidants influence erythropoiesis and neural function in the context of diabetes-induced anemia. We also discuss translational and clinical perspectives, emphasizing the potential integration of these compounds into therapeutic strategies that combine dietary, pharmacological, and lifestyle interventions to prevent or mitigate the multifaceted impacts of diabetic anemia on systemic and neural health.