Effects of Flavonoids and other Polyphenols on Inflammation

Abstract

Flavonoids are a family of polyphenolic compounds which are widespread in nature (vegetables) and are consumed as part of the human diet in significant amounts. There are other types of polyphenols, including, for example, tannins and resveratrol. Flavonoids and related polyphenolic compounds have significant antiinflammatory activity, among others. This short review summarizes the current knowledge on the effects of flavonoids and related polyphenolic compounds on inflammation, with a focus on structural requirements, the mechanisms involved, and pharmacokinetic considerations. Different molecular (cyclooxygenase, lipoxygenase) and cellular targets (macrophages, lymphocytes, epithelial cells, endothelium) have been identified. In addition, many flavonoids display significant antioxidant/radical scavenging properties. There is substantial structural variation in these compounds, which is bound to have an impact on their biological profile, and specifically on their effects on inflammatory conditions. However, in general terms there is substantial consistency in the effects of these compounds despite considerable structural variations. The mechanisms have been studied mainly in myeloid cells, where the predominant effect is an inhibition of NF-κB signaling and the downregulation of the expression of proinflammatory markers. At present there is a gap in knowledge of in vitro and in vivo effects, although the pharmacokinetics of flavonoids has advanced considerably in the last decade. Many flavonoids have been studied for their intestinal antiinflammatory activity which is only logical, since the gastrointestinal tract is naturally exposed to them. However, their potential therapeutic application in inflammation is not restricted to this organ and extends to other sites and conditions, including arthritis, asthma, encephalomyelitis, and atherosclerosis, among others.

Acute Effects of Polyphenols from Cranberries and Grape Seeds on Endothelial Function and Performance in Elite Athletes

“…Intake of dietary polyphenols not only enhances whole body antioxidant capacity [1], but also modulates endothelial function [2]. Polyphenols from various sources have also been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties in non-athletes and in patients with coronary heart disease [3].…”

Different Traditional Methods of Nux-Vomica Detoxification Have Therapeutic Rationales

“…Regarding the role of inflammation in joint problems and some neural ailments as well as the anti-inflammatory effects of the phenolic compound (24,25), using method II instead of method III may be more preferable for these kinds of ailments. Moreover, method III requires one additional step.…”

Mexican oaks as a potential non-timber resource for Kombucha beverages

“…Los compuestos fenólicos están involucrados en diversas funciones, tales como absorción de nutrientes, síntesis de proteínas, actividad enzimática, fotosíntesis, formación de componentes estructurales y defensa contra factores ambientales adversos. Los polifenoles dietéticos muestran un efecto antioxidante significativo/ propiedad de eliminación de radicales; sin embargo, los mecanismos por los que expresan sus efectos benéficos contra varias enfermedades crónicas comunes, tales como las enfermedades cardiovasculares, la diabetes y el cáncer, no están totalmente claros, pero al parecer implican la interacción con vías de señalización molecular y maquinaria relacionada que regulan los procesos celulares como la inflamación (González et al, 2011).…”