Phytochemicals and inflammatory bowel disease: a review

Area of Science:

• Gastroenterology
• Pharmacology
• Phytochemistry

Background:

• The gastrointestinal tract is vital for nutrient absorption via the intestinal barrier.
• Compromised intestinal permeability is a hallmark of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).
• Current synthetic drugs for IBD have limitations and side effects.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review phytochemicals that effectively treat increased intestinal permeability.
• To explore the mechanisms of action of these plant-derived compounds.
• To identify potential alternative therapies for IBD-related gut barrier dysfunction.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of in vitro and in vivo studies.
• Analysis of plant-derived secondary metabolites.
• Examination of phytochemical effects on intestinal permeability and inflammation.

Main Results:

• Phytochemicals like phenolics, glucosinolates, alkaloids, terpenoids, oligosaccharides, and quinones show promise.
• These compounds can reduce intestinal permeability and ameliorate related dysfunctions.
• Mechanisms include modulating enzymatic activity, suppressing inflammatory factors, easing oxidative stress, and reducing pro-inflammatory cytokines.

Conclusions:

• Plant-derived phytochemicals offer a promising avenue for managing increased intestinal permeability.
• These natural compounds present a viable alternative to synthetic drugs for IBD treatment.
• Further research into phytochemicals could lead to novel therapeutic strategies for gut health.