Abstract
The Amazon Rainforest is rich in a diversity of species with various bioactive properties that have been widely used to treat a variety of inflammatory diseases. During the infection process, an oxidative stress environment is created that leads to cellular damage mediated by the transcription factor NF-kB, and triggers the production of pro-inflammatory chemical mediators, such as tumor necrosis factor-α [TNF-α] and interleukins IL-1β, IL-6, which causes a decline in the immune system. In this sense, the camu-camu fruit, which is native to the Amazon region, has in its nutritional composition several bioactive compounds and the highest level of vitamin C among Brazilian tropical fruits. It is also noted for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Therefore, the objective of this review is to analyze the evidence collected in the literature regarding camu-camu as a functional food for the immune system in oxidative and inflammatory events.
Highlights
The proper functioning of the immune system is vital for the survival of the individual
A single nutrient can exert several diverse immune effects, as in the case of vitamin E, which has an inhibitory role of protein kinase C activity, and micronutrients, such as vitamin A and zinc, which regulate cell division, and vitamin C, which has an important role in antioxidant response in the immune system (Wessels, Green & Beck, 2017)
The criteria used for the selection of the papers were that they contemplated the theme of immunity and specific nutrients, as well as papers that had relationships with evidence in in vivo and in vitro research models, the actions or antioxidant and antiflamatory potential of the fruit camu camu
Summary
The proper functioning of the immune system is vital for the survival of the individual. Individuals who have overcome infections or inflammations, depending on their severity, present, among others, a picture of oxidative stress on immunosuppression, excessive loss of lean mass, imbalance between proinflammatory and anti-inflammatory cytokine synthesis and misadjusted antioxidant defenses. In this way, specific nutrients that can reestablish and control these imbalances must be given in these patterns. This article aims to increase the visibility of camu-camu (Myrciaria dubia (HBK) McVaugh) with regards to the immune system, due its excellent antioxidant activity This analysis is based on the high content of vitamin C, its nutritional components and bioative compounds when compared with other tropical fruits. These benefits could be of use in individuals with or without the presence of infection or inflammation and who need to increase or modulate their immune system
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