Golden keys to inflammation: decoding the anti-inflammatory mechanisms of gold(I) and gold(III) complexes (2010–present)

Noncommunicable diseases, one of the growing threats to human health, are believed to be directly related to inflammation. Inflammation is a defence mechanism in the human body which fights against harmful stimuli, yet chronic inflammation can result in numerous undesirable effects and the prevalence of diseases. Chrysotherapy, an approach in which gold compounds are administered into the human body for treating inflammation-related disorders, is the main focus of the current study. This review provides an overview of anti-inflammatory gold(I) and gold(III) complexes from 2010 to date by discussing the critical findings and elucidating the putative underlying mechanisms involved. The mechanisms highlighted are categorised into either anti-inflammatory or antioxidant pathways, including modulation of the NF-κB pathway and inhibition of pro-inflammatory cytokines and oxidative stress. Nevertheless, limited research on the in vivo model poses a major challenge for this area due to the unknown safety profile and precise mechanisms of action. This will be the first review made available that addresses the anti-inflammatory efficacy of gold(I) and gold(III) compounds in the treatment of inflammatory conditions.