Induction of cellular and molecular Immunomodulatory pathways by vitamin E and vitamin C

Abstract

Vitamins E and C are well known small molecules that have been used to maintain health for decades. Recent studies of the cellular and molecular pathways leading to immunomodulation by these molecules have been of interest, as have their anti-oxidant properties and signal transduction pathways for curing or improving infectious diseases and cancer. Areas covered: Herein, the authors provide a definition and the structural classification of vitamins E and C and how these molecules influence cellular function. The studies include in vitro, ex vivo and in vivo studies in animal models as well as clinical trials. The authors give particular focus to the scientifically factual and putative roles of these molecules in innate and adaptive immunomodulation and prevention or cure of diseases. Expert opinion: The antioxidant properties of vitamins E and C are well studied. However, whether there is a link between their antioxidant and immunomodulation properties is unclear. In addition, there is a strong, albeit putative, prevailing notion that vitamin C can prevent or cure infectious diseases or cancer. Presently, while there is proven evidence that vitamin E possesses immunomodulatory properties that may play a positive role in disease outcomes, this evidence is less available for vitamin C.

Potential Micronutrients and Phytochemicals against the Pathogenesis of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease and Lung Cancer

“…Since Grievink et al also found no effect of α-tocopherol in their continuous efforts [ 58 , 59 ], it is possible that the conflicting results mentioned before are caused by a lack of differentiation of vitamin E isoforms. In addition, the antioxidative properties of vitamin E are partly mediated by and are synergistic with vitamin C [ 60 ]. Britton et al reported a vitamin C-dependent association between vitamin E and lung function [ 61 ].…”

Role of Selenium and Vitamins E and B9 in the Alleviation of Bovine Mastitis during the Periparturient Period

“…Consistently, it has been found that vitamin E injection alleviates the oxidative stress caused by exposure to aluminum in rats [120]. Additionally, due to its antioxidant property, several studies have documented the importance of vitamin E in regulating immunity and relieving oxidative stress [122][123][124][125][126][127].…”

The Effects of Electrolytic Multivitamins and Neomycin on Antioxidant Capacity and Intestinal Damage in Transported Lambs

“…It may be due to road transport causing damage to the intestinal mucosal barrier, which affects the metabolism and absorption of nutrients in the intestine, thereby inhibiting the secretion of IgA and sIgA. Other research showed that vitamins could participate in humoral immunity and promote immunoglobulin synthesis [ 33 , 34 ]; adding electrolytes to feed could effectively alleviate heat stress in cows [ 35 ]. In this experiment, the concentrations of IgA and IgG in the jejunum increased significantly after treatment with electrolytic multivitamins.…”