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Targeting Inflammation by Anthocyanins as the Novel Therapeutic Potential for Chronic Diseases: An Update
Aleksandra Kozłowska1, Tomasz Dzierżanowski1
1Department of Social Medicine and Public Health, Medical University of Warsaw, 02-776 Warsaw, Poland.
Abstract:
Low-grade chronic inflammation (LGCI) and oxidative stress act as cooperative and synergistic partners in the pathogenesis of a wide variety of diseases. Polyphenols, including anthocyanins, are involved in regulating the inflammatory state and activating the endogenous antioxidant defenses. Anthocyanins' effects on inflammatory markers are promising and may have the potential to exert an anti-inflammatory effect in vitro and in vivo. Therefore, translating these research findings into clinical practice would effectively contribute to the prevention and treatment of chronic disease. The present narrative review summarizes the results of clinical studies from the last 5 years in the context of the anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidative role of anthocyanins in both health and disease. There is evidence to indicate that anthocyanins supplementation in the regulation of pro-inflammatory markers among the healthy and chronic disease population. Although the inconsistencies between the result of randomized control trials (RCTs) and meta-analyses were also observed. Regarding anthocyanins' effects on inflammatory markers, there is a need for long-term clinical trials allowing for the quantifiable progression of inflammation. The present review can help clinicians and other health care professionals understand the importance of anthocyanins use in patients with chronic diseases.
Insights
Anthocyanins show promise in reducing inflammation and oxidative stress, potentially aiding chronic disease management. Further long-term clinical trials are needed to confirm these anti-inflammatory effects in diverse populations.
Area of Science:
- Nutritional Science
- Biochemistry
- Pathophysiology
Background:
- Low-grade chronic inflammation (LGCI) and oxidative stress are key contributors to numerous diseases.
- Polyphenols, such as anthocyanins, modulate inflammatory responses and endogenous antioxidant systems.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review clinical studies from the past five years on the anti-inflammatory and antioxidant roles of anthocyanins.
- To assess the potential of anthocyanins in managing chronic diseases and promoting health.
Main Methods:
- Narrative review of clinical studies published within the last five years.
- Analysis of research on anthocyanins' effects on inflammatory markers and oxidative stress.
Main Results:
- Anthocyanin supplementation shows potential in regulating pro-inflammatory markers in healthy individuals and those with chronic diseases.
- Inconsistencies were noted between randomized controlled trials and meta-analyses regarding anthocyanins' efficacy.
- Evidence suggests anthocyanins can exert anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects both in vitro and in vivo.
Conclusions:
- Anthocyanins hold promise for the prevention and treatment of chronic diseases by mitigating inflammation and oxidative stress.
- Further long-term, well-designed clinical trials are essential to quantify the progression of inflammation and confirm the benefits of anthocyanins.
- Clinicians can utilize this review to understand the significance of anthocyanins in patient care for chronic conditions.
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