Garlic Compound Boosts Immune System in Cells and Immunosuppressed Mice

Jenn Hoskins
4th September, 2024

Garlic Compound Boosts Immune System in Cells and Immunosuppressed Mice

Image Source: Egor Kamelev (photographer)

Key Findings

  • The study by Jinan University and the University of Canterbury found that garlic polysaccharides (GP) can enhance the immune response in both lab and animal models
  • GP significantly boosted the activity of macrophages and increased levels of immune markers like nitric oxide, TNF-α, and IL-6
  • In immunosuppressed mice, GP reversed immune suppression, increased cytokines and immunoglobulins, and improved gut health by modulating gut microbiota
Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a chronic inflammatory condition affecting the colon and rectum. Current treatments often come with significant side effects, necessitating the search for safer alternatives. A recent study conducted by Jinan University and the University of Canterbury explores the immune-modulatory effects of garlic polysaccharides (GP)[1]. This study could provide new insights into managing UC and other immune-related conditions. The study investigates how GP can enhance the immune response under immunosuppressive conditions. Using both in vitro and in vivo methods, researchers observed that GP significantly boosted the activity of macrophages, a type of white blood cell essential for immune defense. Elevated levels of nitric oxide, TNF-α, and IL-6 were noted, indicating a heightened immune response. Further exploration was conducted using an immunosuppressed mouse model. Cyclophosphamide (CTX), a common immunosuppressant, was used to suppress the immune system of these mice. Interestingly, GP administration reversed the suppression, increasing levels of cytokines like IFN-γ and IL-6, and immunoglobulins such as IgA and IgG. This suggests that GP can potentially counteract the adverse effects of immunosuppressive treatments. Histopathological analysis revealed that GP intervention also mitigated damage to the small intestine and spleen, organs often affected by immunosuppression. Additionally, GP increased fecal short-chain fatty acid levels, which are beneficial for gut health. This ties into earlier findings that garlic and its derivatives can modulate cytokine secretion and enhance immune function[2]. The study also highlighted GP's ability to modulate gut microbiota. GP increased the abundance of beneficial bacteria like g__norank_f__Erysipelotrichaceae while reducing harmful bacteria such as g_Bacteroides. This is significant because gut microbiota plays a crucial role in overall health and immune function. Functional predictions indicated that the gut biomarkers of GP possessed glycoside hydrolase family 32 (GH32) and β-fructofuranosidase activities, enzymes involved in carbohydrate metabolism. These findings are consistent with previous research on the health benefits of garlic. Garlic has been shown to have antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and lipid-lowering properties, contributing to its therapeutic effects on various diseases[3]. The rapid metabolism and poor bioavailability of garlic have been limitations, but this study suggests that polysaccharides derived from garlic could overcome these issues. Moreover, the anti-inflammatory properties of garlic align with the effects observed in this study. For instance, melittin, a compound found in bee venom, has demonstrated similar anti-inflammatory effects by inhibiting cytokines and oxidative stress markers[4]. The ability of GP to modulate cytokine levels and reduce histopathological damage further supports garlic's potential as a therapeutic agent. In summary, the study conducted by Jinan University and the University of Canterbury provides compelling evidence that garlic polysaccharides can serve as potent immunostimulants. By enhancing immune response, reversing immunosuppression, and modulating gut microbiota, GP offers a promising alternative for managing immune-compromised conditions. This research not only aligns with but also expands upon existing knowledge about the health benefits of garlic, making it a valuable contribution to the field.

MedicineHealthBiochem

References

Main Study

1) A fructan-type garlic polysaccharide upregulates immune responses in macrophage cells and in immunosuppressive mice.

Published 15th November, 2024 (future Journal edition)

https://doi.org/10.1016/j.carbpol.2024.122530

Related Studies

2) Immunomodulation and anti-inflammatory effects of garlic compounds.

https://doi.org/10.1155/2015/401630

3) Potential Health Benefit of Garlic Based on Human Intervention Studies: A Brief Overview.

https://doi.org/10.3390/antiox9070619

4) Antiulcerogenic effect of melittin via mitigating TLR4/TRAF6 mediated NF-κB and p38MAPK pathways in acetic acid-induced ulcerative colitis in mice.

https://doi.org/10.1016/j.cbi.2020.109276


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