BIOLOGICAL APPROACHES TO SILYMARIN AND ITS ASSOCIATION WITH METALLIC COMPOUNDS AND ZN(II)

Abstract

This study presents a qualitative literature review on silymarin, a complex of flavonolignans extracted from milk thistle, with emphasis on its biological studies and its association with metallic compounds, highlighting the zinc (II) ion. Silymarin exhibits antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and hepatoprotective properties; however, its clinical application is limited by factors such as low aqueous solubility, rapid elimination, and reduced cellular permeability. Research involving silymarin in inorganic compounds is relatively recent, particularly studies associated with the zinc (II) ion. This association emerges as a promising strategy to improve bioavailability, chemical stability, and pharmacological activity of the compound. The literature review was conducted across different databases, covering publications from 2021 to 2025. Original articles, case reports, and experimental studies addressing mechanisms of association, chelation, bioavailability, biological activity, or therapeutic applications of silymarin, either alone or combined with metallic ions, were included. After screening titles and abstracts, 14 articles were selected for full analysis. The results indicate that the association of silymarin with metallic ions, especially zinc (II), may positively influence its biological and pharmacological properties, reinforcing its therapeutic potential.