Exploring the pathophysiological influence of heme oxygenase-1 on neuroinflammation and depression: A study of phytotherapeutic-based modulation

Background: The heme oxygenase (HO) system plays a significant role in neuroprotection and reduction of neuroinflammation and neurodegeneration. The system, via isoforms HO -1 and HO -2, regulates cellular redox balance. HO -1, an antioxidant defense enzyme, is highlighted due to its association with depression, characterized by heightened neuroinflammation and impaired oxidative stress responses. Methodology: We observed the pathophysiology of HO -1 and phytochemicals as its modulator. We explored Science Direct, Scopus, and PubMed for a comprehensive literature review. Bibliometric and temporal trend analysis were done using VOSviewer. Results: Several phytochemicals can potentially alleviate neuroinflammation and oxidative stress-induced depressive symptoms. These effects result from inhibiting the MAPK and NK-kappa B pathways - both implicated in