Abstract
Mast cells are key actors in inflammatory reactions. Upon activation, they release histamine, heparin and nerve growth factor, among many other mediators that modulate immune response and neuron sensitization. One important feature of mast cells is that their population is usually increased in animal models and biopsies from patients with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Therefore, mast cells and mast cell mediators are regarded as key components in IBS pathophysiology. IBS is a common functional gastrointestinal disorder affecting the quality of life of up to 20% of the population worldwide. It is characterized by abdominal pain and altered bowel habits, with heterogeneous phenotypes ranging from constipation to diarrhea, with a mixed subtype and even an unclassified form. Nutrient intake is one of the triggering factors of IBS. In this respect, certain components of the daily food, such as fatty acids, amino acids or plant-derived substances like flavonoids, have been described to modulate mast cells’ activity. In this review, we will focus on the effect of these molecules, either stimulatory or inhibitory, on mast cell degranulation, looking for a nutraceutical capable of decreasing IBS symptoms.
Highlights
Amongst the many non-communicable chronic diseases, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is remarkable for its worldwide prevalence, variety of symptoms, diversity of etiologies, complicated diagnosis and high economic burden [1,2,3,4]
Other immune cells may be involved in the pathophysiology of IBS, mast cells have been highlighted as important cell mediators of local nerve fiber sensitization [9]
It is characterized by abdominal pain and altered bowel habits with heterogeneous phenotypes that range from IBS with predominant constipation (IBS-C) to IBS with predominant diarrhea (IBS-D), with a mixed subtype (IBS-M) and even an unclassified form (IBS-U) in patients who do not meet the previous criteria [2,48]
Summary
Amongst the many non-communicable chronic diseases, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is remarkable for its worldwide prevalence, variety of symptoms, diversity of etiologies, complicated diagnosis and high economic burden [1,2,3,4]. Other immune cells may be involved in the pathophysiology of IBS, mast cells have been highlighted as important cell mediators of local nerve fiber sensitization [9]. These cells are well known for their role in the development of type 1 hypersensitization reactions, i.e., allergies, including those to different foods in particular patients [11]. Thereafter, we will describe different nutraceuticals that have been studied for their possible modulatory effects on mast cell activity and, their potential role in triggering or inhibiting IBS symptoms Their most likely molecular mechanisms of action will be discussed
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
