The Biological Effects of Novel Nutraceuticals with Curcuminoids and Other Plant-Derived Immunomodulators and Pre-Probiotics

Abstract

An effective and well-balanced immune system is pivotal for maintaining health. Diet and nutrition can affect the functioning of numerous immune parameters, with direct repercussions on homeostasis. Since our immune functions are indispensable in defending the body against pathogens and thus play a vital role in maintaining health, modulating immune response may well serve as the basis for the development of plant-based functional foods and novel nutraceuticals. This concept is currently utilized in attempts to prevent or mitigate inflammatory reactions via the development of targeted food products or active ingredients since an extended number of phytoconstituents (such as curcuminoids) are associated with beneficial effects on immunity. Immunomodulatory plant-based dietary supplements are considered effective in improving immune functions and reducing the incidence of immunological disorders or imbalances. Therefore, the main focus of this study was to evidence the beneficial biological effects such as antioxidant and antimicrobial, as well as nutritional status, biocompatibility and cell proliferation capacity and immunomodulation of two novel nutraceuticals. The first nutraceutic was based on curcuminoids and other actives from Trigonella foenum- graecum (seeds), Chelidonium majus L. (aerial parts), Taraxacum officinale L. (roots), vitamins (C, D3, A, E) and minerals (zinc) whereas the second one was made of probiotics such as Lactobacillus acidophilus and Bifidobacterium animalis subsp. Lactis combined with actives from Helianthus tuberosus (tubers) and Psyllium/Plantago ovata (husk) as herbal prebiotics.

Dextran-Coated Iron Oxide Nanoparticles Loaded with Curcumin for Antimicrobial Therapies

“…Finally, the biosubstance chosen for this study was curcumin, the biphenolic bioactive compound of the Curcuma longa plant [ 60 ]. In the biomedical area, curcumin has been widely used as an antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anticancer, antiapoptotic, and neuroprotective agent [ 61 , 62 , 63 ]. In the present study, curcumin was investigated for its antimicrobial properties against Gram-positive, Gram-negative, and fungal strains [ 64 , 65 ].…”

In Vivo Acute Toxicity and Immunomodulation Assessment of a Novel Nutraceutical in Mice

“…Several literature findings indicate a positive immunomodulatory effect if the tested product can present modulatory properties of either innate or adaptative immunity via direct or indirect mechanisms [57][58][59][60]. More specifically, activation of macrophages, NK cells, T-cells and B-cells.…”

Evaluation of the Putative Duplicity Effect of Novel Nutraceuticals Using Physico-Chemical and Biological In Vitro Models

“…The administration of nutraceuticals as well as of various supplements, such as fibers, antioxidant vitamins, omega-3 fatty acids, and herbs, has been employed to improve various diseases associated with dysbiosis [ 8 ]. In a recently published paper [ 9 ], we highlighted that research into the possible role of functional foods and nutraceuticals in mitigating immune function and actively sustain gut health is still in its infancy, especially in the Romanian market.…”