What is it about?

This review summarizes current knowledge on how anthocyanins (ACNs)—a group of dietary polyphenols abundant in fruits and vegetables—support intestinal barrier integrity and counteract inflammation. The paper highlights the cellular and molecular mechanisms through which ACNs act, including inhibition of major pro‑inflammatory pathways (NF‑κB, JNK, MAPK, STAT3, TLR4), activation of the antioxidant transcription factor Nrf2, and regulation of mucins and tight‑junction proteins (ZO‑1, occludin, claudin‑1, JAM‑1). The review integrates findings from both in vitro and in vivo studies, emphasizing how ACNs modulate cytokines, oxidative stress markers, and epithelial barrier components involved in intestinal dysfunction.

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Why is it important?

Alterations in intestinal barrier function contribute to a variety of inflammation‑related disorders, affecting not only the gastrointestinal tract but also extra‑intestinal tissues. Diet‑derived anthocyanins are strongly associated with reduced intestinal inflammation and improved barrier health. Understanding how ACNs regulate cell signaling, oxidative responses and epithelial integrity provides mechanistic insight into their protective effects. These findings support the rationale for using ACN‑rich foods or supplements as complementary strategies to help prevent or mitigate chronic intestinal inflammation.

Perspectives

Evidence suggests that ACNs and their metabolites modulate multiple signaling pathways involved in inflammation, oxidative stress and barrier dysfunction. Future research should clarify the contribution of ACN‑derived metabolites formed in the gut, explore their interactions with the microbiota, and validate mechanistic findings in more physiological models. Additional studies are needed to translate these mechanistic insights into recommendations for dietary intake and potential nutraceutical applications targeting intestinal health.

Prof. Antonio Speciale
University of Messina

Read the Original

This page is a summary of: An overview on the cellular mechanisms of anthocyanins in maintaining intestinal integrity and function, Fitoterapia, June 2024, Elsevier,
DOI: 10.1016/j.fitote.2024.105953.
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