The Role of Bioactive Compounds in Immunity and Metabolism

A special issue of Nutrients (ISSN 2072-6643). This special issue belongs to the section "Phytochemicals and Human Health".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: 25 May 2024 | Viewed by 3658

Special Issue Editor


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Guest Editor
School of Human Movement and Nutrition Sciences, University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD 4072, Australia
Interests: bioactive natural products; biochemical response to supplements; inflammation, signalling pathways; liver and kidney disease; exercise; absorption/bioavailability; exercise recovery; gastrointestinal health; intestinal permeability

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

The role of bioactive compounds in immunity and metabolism is a dynamic and evolving field, offering promising avenues for improving health and preventing diseases. Bioactive compounds play a pivotal role in both immunity and metabolism, profoundly impacting our overall health. Phytochemicals found in fruits, vegetables, and herbs, such as flavonoids and polyphenols, bolster immunity by enhancing the function of immune cells and reducing inflammation. These compounds act as antioxidants, neutralizing harmful free radicals that can compromise the immune system. Moreover, bioactive compounds exert a profound influence on metabolism. They can modulate key enzymes and metabolic pathways, promoting efficient energy utilization and regulating blood sugar levels. Bioactive compounds act as essential mediators in maintaining a robust immune system and a well-balanced metabolism, contributing significantly to our overall well-being.

The scope for bioactive compounds in immunity and metabolism research and application is vast and continues to expand as our understanding of these compounds increases. Continued research, innovation, and collaboration between scientists, nutritionists, pharmacologists, and healthcare professionals will further expand our understanding and application of these compounds in enhancing human health. This Special Issue aims to explore a wide range of bioactive compounds with the objective of influencing immunity and metabolism.

Dr. David Briskey
Guest Editor

Manuscript Submission Information

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Keywords

  • bioactive products
  • infection, immunity, and inflammation
  • pharmacokinetics, absorption, and bioavailability
  • gastrointestinal health
  • metagenomics
  • microbiome

Published Papers (2 papers)

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Research

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9 pages, 1039 KiB  
Article
The Efficacy of Palmitoylethanolamide (Levagen+) on the Incidence and Symptoms of Upper Respiratory Tract Infection—A Double Blind, Randomised, Placebo-Controlled Trial
by Amanda Rao, Rachael Skinner and David Briskey
Nutrients 2023, 15(20), 4453; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu15204453 - 20 Oct 2023
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Abstract
Introduction: Upper respiratory tract infections (URTIs) are caused by bacteria or viruses, with the most common causes being the common cold and influenza. The high occurrence of URTI means therapies that are effective with minimal side effects are in constant demand. Palmitoylethanolamide (PEA) [...] Read more.
Introduction: Upper respiratory tract infections (URTIs) are caused by bacteria or viruses, with the most common causes being the common cold and influenza. The high occurrence of URTI means therapies that are effective with minimal side effects are in constant demand. Palmitoylethanolamide (PEA) is a signaling lipid previously shown to be effective in improving the incidence of URTIs. The aim of this study was to assess the effectiveness of PEA (Levagen+) on URTI incidence, duration, and severity. Methods: Participants (n = 426) consumed either 300 mg of Levagen+ or a placebo (maltodextrin) twice daily for 12 weeks. Participants completed the Wisconsin Upper Respiratory Symptom Survey 24 questionnaire daily upon the commencement of symptoms until symptoms subsided. Results: The Levagen+ group reported fewer URTI episodes (39 vs. 64) compared to the placebo group. The Levagen+ group reported a significant reduction in the median severity score of URTI symptoms for scratchy throat (3 vs. 7) and cough (2 vs. 7) compared to the placebo group. Conclusions: The results of this study show Levagen+ to be safe and effective in reducing the incidence and symptoms associated with URTIs. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Role of Bioactive Compounds in Immunity and Metabolism)
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29 pages, 749 KiB  
Review
Bioactive Components of Human Milk and Their Impact on Child’s Health and Development, Literature Review
by Hubert Szyller, Katarzyna Antosz, Joanna Batko, Agata Mytych, Marta Dziedziak, Martyna Wrześniewska, Joanna Braksator and Tomasz Pytrus
Nutrients 2024, 16(10), 1487; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu16101487 (registering DOI) - 14 May 2024
Abstract
The composition of human breast milk is an ideal combination of substances necessary for the healthy development of an infant’s body while protecting from pathogens and the balanced development of the microbiota. Its composition is dynamic and changes with the age of the [...] Read more.
The composition of human breast milk is an ideal combination of substances necessary for the healthy development of an infant’s body while protecting from pathogens and the balanced development of the microbiota. Its composition is dynamic and changes with the age of the child, meeting their current needs. The study provides a thorough overview of human milk components, such as immunological components, growth factors, hormones, carbohydrates, lipids, minerals, and vitamins. Authors focus on capturing the most important aspects of the effects of these substances on a newborn’s body, while also looking for specific connections and describing the effects on given systems. Supplementation and the use of ingredients are also discussed. The purpose of this paper is to present the current state of knowledge about the bioactive components of human milk and their impact on the growth, development, and health of the young child. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Role of Bioactive Compounds in Immunity and Metabolism)
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