Title:Catechins as Model Bioactive Compounds for Biomedical Applications
VOLUME: 26 ISSUE: 33
Author(s):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*
Affiliation: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
Keywords:Polyphenols, catechin, therapeutic uses, drug delivery systems, pathologic processes, oral health.
Abstract: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.