Potential of phytochemicals as immune-regulatory compounds in atopic diseases: A review

Sukriti Sharma1, Amarjit S Naura1

  • 1Department of Biochemistry, Panjab University, Chandigarh 160014, India.

Biochemical Pharmacology
|January 9, 2020
PubMed

Insights

Phytochemicals show promise in managing atopic diseases like eczema and asthma by targeting redox imbalance. Further research is needed to improve their bioavailability for effective clinical use.

Area of Science:

  • Immunology
  • Dermatology
  • Pharmacology

Background:

  • Atopic diseases, including atopic dermatitis, asthma, and allergic rhinitis, are increasingly prevalent globally.
  • Redox imbalance is a critical factor in the inflammatory processes underlying these allergic conditions.
  • Complementary and alternative medicine, particularly natural compounds, are being explored for their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the impact of phytochemicals on redox-linked cellular and signaling pathways involved in atopic disease manifestation.
  • To identify research gaps and propose future strategies for enhancing the clinical efficacy of phytochemicals in treating atopic diseases.

Main Methods:

  • Review of existing literature on phytochemicals, redox balance, and atopic disease pathogenesis.
  • Analysis of cellular signaling pathways affected by phytochemicals in experimental models.
  • Exploration of bioavailability challenges associated with natural compounds.

Main Results:

  • Phytochemicals demonstrate antioxidant and anti-inflammatory potential in pre-clinical studies, suppressing allergic responses.
  • Evidence suggests phytochemicals influence critical redox-linked cellular and signaling pathways implicated in atopic diseases.
  • Clinical success of phytochemicals has been limited, potentially due to poor absorption and bioavailability.

Conclusions:

  • Phytochemicals hold therapeutic potential for atopic diseases by modulating redox imbalance.
  • Improving the bioavailability of phytochemicals is crucial for translating pre-clinical findings into clinical success.
  • Further research is warranted to develop strategies for optimizing phytochemical efficacy in managing allergic conditions.

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