Shaohui Zhu, Xin Li, Jing Wang, Kaiqi Zheng, Runqiao Zhao, Yi Cheng, Qianqian Guan, Tao Xiong
Riboflavin (Vitamin B2) and nicotinamide (Vitamin B3) are essential micronutrients widely utilized in food fortification, yet their immunomodulatory potential in the central nervous system remains under-explored. This study employed an LPS-induced BV2 microglial model to evaluate the anti-neuroinflammatory mechanisms of these vitamins, aiming to provide a fundamental cellular rationale from a nutritional perspective. Results showed treatment-dependent reductions in NO production and in several pro-inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6), together with enhanced antioxidant enzyme activities (GSH, CAT, and SOD). Mechanistically, VB2 treatment reduced intracellular Ca²⁺ levels, whereas VB3 treatment markedly attenuated ROS accumulation. The combined treatment also attenuated TLR4/MyD88/NF-κB related signaling and reduced multiple inflammatory readouts. These findings characterize the distinct cellular responses to VB2 and VB3 and the anti-neuroinflammatory effects observed under their co-treatment, providing a theoretical basis for future studies of their combined application.