Recent Advances in Plant Derived Anti-inflammatory Compounds

Dear Colleagues,

Chronic inflammation is involved in the disease process of many conditions, including Alzheimer's disease, cancer, heart disease, arthritis, diabetes, and neurodegenerative diseases. Fortunately, many plant-derived compounds possess anti-inflammatory properties. Some well-known classes of plant-derived compounds with anti-inflammatory activity include polyphenols, terpenoids, and alkaloids. These compounds affect key molecules involved in the inflammatory response. For instance, curcumin, a bright yellow spice, inhibits nuclear factor-kappa, a regulator of inflammation. Resveratrol, found in grapes and red wine, can suppress pro-inflammatory cytokines. Many plant-derived compounds, including quercetin from onions and citrus fruits, as well as epigallocatechin gallate in green tea, also counteract oxidative stress—a common trigger of chronic inflammation. Plant-derived compounds, such as dietary fibers and prebiotics found in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, influence the composition and activity of gut bacteria, modulating inflammation by promoting a healthy gut environment. Additionally, the Mediterranean diet, rich in plant-derived compounds like olive oil and vegetables, has been linked to a decreased risk of inflammatory diseases. Propolis, a natural product bees make from resins and other bioactive plant materials, blocks proinflammatory PAK1, a kinase highly expressed in COVID19 patients, and has been shown to reduce the impact of this disease. Continued research on bioactive plant compounds can help provide accessible and safe solutions for chronic inflammation. 

Dr. David De Jong
Guest Editor

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