Phytochemical Bioactivity in Inflammatory Disorders
Summary
Phytochemicals are biologically active compounds derived from plants, encompassing classes such as polyphenols, flavonoids, alkaloids and terpenoids. These molecules modulate inflammatory pathways through antioxidant effects, regulation of pro- and anti-inflammatory mediators and direct interaction with signalling cascades. By scavenging reactive oxygen species and inhibiting enzymes responsible for eicosanoid synthesis, many phytochemicals reduce the production of cytokines and lipid mediators that underlie chronic inflammation. Such bioactivity has relevance across a spectrum of disorders, including rheumatoid arthritis, inflammatory bowel disease, neurodegenerative conditions and metabolic syndrome. Dietary sources and standardised extracts have been translated into nutraceuticals and offer potential lead structures for drug development. The global significance of this field lies in identifying safe, cost-effective agents that can complement existing therapies, address unmet medical needs and inform public health strategies through functional foods and precision nutrition.
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Phytochemical Bioactivity in Inflammatory Disorders publication trend
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Technical terms
NF-κB: A protein complex that controls transcription of genes involved in immune and inflammatory responses.
MAPK (Mitogen-Activated Protein Kinase): A family of enzymes that transduce extracellular signals into cellular responses, including inflammation.
Cytokines: Small secreted proteins that mediate and regulate immunity and inflammation.
Inducible Nitric Oxide Synthase (iNOS): An enzyme that generates nitric oxide, a reactive molecule with roles in host defence and inflammation.
Prostaglandin E₂ (PGE₂): A lipid mediator produced by cyclooxygenase enzymes that contributes to vasodilation, pain and fever during inflammation.
References
- Steppogenin Isolated from Cudrania tricuspidata Shows Antineuroinflammatory Effects via NF-κB and MAPK Pathways in LPS-Stimulated BV2 and Primary Rat Microglial Cells. Molecules (2017).
- Inhibition of lipopolysaccharide-induced nitric oxide and prostaglandin E2 production by chloroform fraction of Cudrania tricuspidata in RAW 264.7 macrophages. BMC Complementary Medicine and Therapies (2012).
- Prenylated Flavonoids from Cudrania tricuspidata Suppress Lipopolysaccharide-Induced Neuroinflammatory Activities in BV2 Microglial Cells. International Journal of Molecular Sciences (2016).
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