Adriana N. dos Santos, Tatiana R. de L. Nascimento, Brenna L. C. Gondim, Marilia M. A. C. Velo, Renaly I. de A. Rêgo, José R. do C. Neto, Juliana R. Machado, Marcos V. da Silva, Helvia W. C. de Araújo, Maria G. Fonseca and Lúcio R. C. Castellano* Pages 4032 - 4047 ( 16 )
Research regarding polyphenols has gained prominence over the years because of their potential as pharmacological nutrients. Most polyphenols are flavanols, commonly known as catechins, which are present in high amounts in green tea. Catechins are promising candidates in the field of biomedicine. The health benefits of catechins, notably their antioxidant effects, are related to their chemical structure and the total number of hydroxyl groups. In addition, catechins possess strong activities against several pathogens, including bacteria, viruses, parasites, and fungi. One major limitation of these compounds is low bioavailability. Catechins are poorly absorbed by intestinal barriers. Some protective mechanisms may be required to maintain or even increase the stability and bioavailability of these molecules within living organisms. Moreover, novel delivery systems, such as scaffolds, fibers, sponges, and capsules, have been proposed. This review focuses on the unique structures and bioactive properties of catechins and their role in inflammatory responses as well as provides a perspective on their use in future human health applications.
Polyphenols, catechin, therapeutic uses, drug delivery systems, pathologic processes, oral health.
Human Immunology Research and Education Group (GEPIH), Technical School of Health, Federal University of Paraiba, Joao Pessoa, PB, Human Immunology Research and Education Group (GEPIH), Technical School of Health, Federal University of Paraiba, Joao Pessoa, PB, Post-Graduation Program in Dentistry, Department of Dentistry, State University of Paraiba, Campina Grande, PB, Department of Operative Dentistry, Endodontics and Dental Materials, Bauru School of Dentistry, University of São Paulo, SP, Post-Graduation Program in Pharmaceutical Sciences, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, State University of Paraiba, Campina Grande, PB, Post-Graduation Program in Tropical Medicine and Public Health, Institute of Tropical Pathology and Public Health, Federal University of Goias, Goiania, GO, Post-Graduation Program in Tropical Medicine and Public Health, Institute of Tropical Pathology and Public Health, Federal University of Goias, Goiania, GO, Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Parasitology, Federal University of Triângulo Mineiro, Uberaba, Minas Gerais, Department of Chemistry, State University of Paraíba, Campina Grande, PB, Research Center for Fuels and Materials (NPE - LACOM), Department of Chemistry, Federal University of Paraiba, Joao Pessoa, PB, Human Immunology Research and Education Group (GEPIH), Technical School of Health, Federal University of Paraiba, Joao Pessoa, PB