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Protective effects and mechanism of resveratrol in animal models of pulmonary fibrosis: a preclinical systematic review and meta-analysis

Yin Y, Jia N, Luo H, Feng X, He X, Huang J, Wang F

Frontiers in pharmacology, 2025

2 citations

Abstract

Background: Pulmonary fibrosis (PF) is a chronic lung disease characterized by ongoing interstitial scarring. Current treatments can only slow the progression of the disease. Resveratrol (RES), a natural polyphenolic compound, has become a potential therapy for PF because of its multiple biological effects, including anti-fibrotic, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties.

Objectives: To clarify RES's efficacy, safety, and mechanism of action in treating PF through a preclinical systematic review.

Methods: A computerized search of eight databases (up to 6 March 2025) was conducted to identify in vivo animal experiments on RES treatment for PF. The SYRCLE tool was used to assess the risk of bias, and meta-analysis was performed using RevMan 5.4 and Stata 17.0. The outcome measures included two main aspects: core pathological processes and molecular mechanisms. Heterogeneity was assessed with the I 2 test, and publication bias was evaluated using funnel plots and Egger's test.

Results: A total of 25 studies were included, involving 628 animals in the experimental groups and 357 animals in the control groups. Meta-analysis of selected outcome measures showed: 1. Improved fibrosis: significant reduction in pulmonary fibrosis score (SMD = -2.30, 95% CI [-2.80, -1.79], p I 2 = 76%) and decreased Hyp content (SMD = -2.16, 95% CI [-2.69, -1.63], p I 2 = 85%); 2. Inhibited inflammation: reduced TNF-α content (SMD = -1.58, 95% CI [-2.18, -0.99], p I 2 = 70%) and decreased IL-6…

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Evidence Hub reads this as a meta-analysis, done in animal, not in people. Its evidence level is 5 of 5 (Very low · case / narrative / animal / in vitro / in silico). Case reports, narrative reviews, and animal, cell or computer-model studies give the weakest evidence for human health.

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