Короткий опис (реферат):
The immune system protects the body from infectious agents such as bacteria, viruses, or
fungi. Once encountered with pathogens or antigens, the innate and adaptive arms of the immune
system trigger a strong immune response to eliminate them from the system and protect the body.
Thus, well-balanced immunity is pivotal for maintaining human health, as an insufficient level of
immune defense leads to infections and tumors. In contrast, the excessive functioning of the immune
system causes the development of autoimmune diseases and allergies. Strong immunity requires
adequate nutrition, dietary interventions, and sufficient intake of certain vitamins (vitamin C, vitamin
D, and folic acid) and minerals (magnesium, zinc, and selenium). Therefore, nutritional and micronutrient deficiencies lead to compromised immunity. Several natural ingredients have shown potent
immunomodulatory properties. The immune-enhancing properties of many plants and fungi are
due to containing bioactive phytoconstituents such as polyphenols, terpenoids, β-glucans, vitamins,
etc. Probiotics and prebiotics can be used as innovative tools to reduce intestinal inflammation and
downregulate hypersensitivity reactions. Plant sources of melatonin, a multifunctional molecule
with proven anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory properties, have been discovered relatively
recently. The bioactive compounds augment the immune response by directly increasing the cytotoxic
activity of natural killer cells, macrophages, and neutrophils. Many phytoconstituents prevent cell
damage due to their powerful antimicrobial, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory properties. The
present review attempts to understand the molecular mechanisms underlying the immune-enhancing
properties of some bioactive compounds from plants, fungi, animals, microorganisms, and other
natural sources.
