Toxicological aspects of the use of phenolic compounds in disease prevention

Abstract

<jats:title>Toxicological aspects of the use of phenolic compounds in disease prevention</jats:title><jats:p>The consumption of a diet low in fat and enhanced by fruits and vegetables, especially rich in phenolic compounds, may reduce risks of many civilization diseases. The use of traditional medicines, mainly derived from plant sources, has become an attractive segment in the management of many lifestyle diseases. Concerning the application of dietary supplements (based on phenolic compounds) in common practice, the ongoing debate over possible adverse effects of certain nutrients and dosage levels is of great importance. Since dietary supplements are not classified as drugs, their potential toxicities and interactions have not been thoroughly evaluated. First, this review will introduce phenolic compounds as natural substances beneficial for human health. Second, the potential dual mode of action of flavonoids will be outlined. Third, potential deleterious impacts of phenolic compounds utilization will be discussed: pro-oxidant and estrogenic activities, cancerogenic potential, cytotoxic effects, apoptosis induction and flavonoid-drug interaction. Finally, future trends within the research field will be indicated.</jats:p>

An overview on the role of dietary phenolics for the treatment of cancers

“…Moreover, since phenolic compounds are known to scavenge reactive oxygen species, which are required for some of the key biological processes such as prevention of infections and inflammatory reactions, administering phenolic compounds to treat cancers might affect these processes and leads to infections and unusual inflammatory reactions [128]. …”

“…This pro-oxidant effect leads to deleterious effects on DNA, proteins and lipids [128]. Further, at higher concentrations phenolic acids can induce blisters and harm healthy cells.…”

Potent Inhibitory Effects of Some Phenolic Acids on Lactoperoxidase

“…Hence, protection the activity of the LPO enzyme has a vital role for immune systems of mainly newborns and all mammals [7]. However, various harmful effects of phenolic compounds have been mentioned in some con-ducted studies [18]. Phenolic acids are the most important groups of bioactive compounds.…”

Relevance of Natural Phenolics from Grape and Derivative Products in the Formulation of Cosmetics

“…The consumption of grape-derived dietary flavonoids in the form of grape extracts and grape seed powders has been shown to effectively suppress oxidative stress and prevent oxidative damage in vivo [29]. However, phenolic compounds can have deleterious effects on the skin, since they can be unstable and led to the formation of radicals, or behave as prooxidants [30]. When they act as antioxidants, they can also form radicals, having effects on the skin not yet satisfyingly answered.…”