Work

Immunomodulatory and antimicrobial effects of vitamin C

Year: 2019

Type: review

Abstract: Humans have lost their vitamin C-synthesizing capacities during evolution. Therefore, the uptake of this essential compound from external sources is mandatory in order to prevent vitamin C-deficient conditions resulting in severe morbidities such as scurvy. The potent antioxidant, immunomodulatory, and antiinfectious effects of vitamin C are known since the 1930s. We here (i) review the impact of vitamin C on innate and adaptive immune functions, (ii) provide an overview of its antimicrobial, antibacterial, antiviral, antiparasitic, and antifungal properties, and finally, (iii) discuss vitamin C as an adjunct treatment option for the combat of human infections by bacteria, particularly by emerging multidrug-resistant species.

Source: European Journal of Microbiology and Immunology

DOI: 10.1556/1886.2019.00016

Authors: Soraya Mousavi, Stefan Bereswill, Markus M. Heimesaat

Institutions: Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin

Language: English

Topic: Vitamin C and Antioxidants Research

Subfield: Nutrition and Dietetics

Field: Nursing

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: diamond

Funder: Bundesministerium für Bildung und Forschung