Nutraceuticals have potential for boosting the type 1 interferon response to RNA viruses including influenza and coronavirus.

Mark F McCarty, James J DiNicolantonio

Journal: Progress in cardiovascular diseases 2020;63(3):383-385

PMID: 32061635

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Plain Language Summary

This highly technical review paper summarises some known actions and mechanisms by which certain nutraceuticals can boost the type 1 interferon response, a specific immune response to viruses, including influenza and coronavirus. These include: Ferulate (ferulic acid) has been shown to stimulate type 1 interferon production, and enhanced survival in influenza A-infected mice. Sulforaphane (phytochemical found in cruciferous vegetables like broccoli) and lipoic acid have similar actions. Spirulina extract has been found to decrease mortality in influenza-infected mice. Clinical and preclinical evidence for the potential benefits of N-acetylcysteine (NAC), a precursor for the important antioxidant glutathione, and selenium are also discussed. A glucosamine-enriched diet increased survival of mice infected with influenza virus. The authors present a table with suggested dosages for the above nutrients, as well as yeast beta-glucans, zinc and elderberry extracts, for viral control, whilst calling for more research into these compounds.

Abstract

Address: Catalytic Longevity Foundation, United States of America.; Mid America Heart Institute, St. Luke's Hospital, United States of America. Electronic address: [email protected].

DOI: 10.1016/j.pcad.2020.02.007

Patient Centred Factor

Mediators: Influenza/nutraceuticals

Clinical Imbalances

Immune and inflammation

Modifiable Lifestyle Factors

Diet

Nutrition Evidence Keywords

Influenza Nutraceuticals Coronavirus Viral infection RNA viruses

Bioactive Substances

Zinc Selenium Glucosamine N-acetylcysteine Spirulina Elderberry extract Ferulic acid

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MeSH Terms: Animals, Antioxidants, Antiviral Agents, Betacoronavirus, COVID-19, Coronavirus Infections, Dietary Supplements, Enzyme Inhibitors, Host Microbial Interactions, Humans, Hydrogen Peroxide, Immunologic Factors, Influenza, Human, Interferon Type I, NADPH Oxidase 2, Orthomyxoviridae, Pandemics, Pneumonia, Viral, SARS-CoV-2, Toll-Like Receptor 7, Virulence, COVID-19 Drug Treatment