Work

Dietary polyphenols as functional food bioactives: Nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2)-mediated antioxidant and immunomodulatory mechanisms in combating bacterial infections

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: The rising threat of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) highlights the need for novel strategies to fight against microbial pathogens while strengthening host defenses. Dietary polyphenols abundant in fruits, vegetables, and food byproducts, could offer dual antimicrobial and host-protective effects. At the same time, nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) activation emerges as one of key mechanisms that extend beyond antioxidant control to regulate cytokine production and innate immune signaling. This review discusses the underexplored role of polyphenol in activating Nrf2 as a signaling hub that coordinates host immune responses against bacterial infection. Despite bioavailability hurdles, polyphenols could offer a promise direction for functional foods-based strategies in infection control.

Source: Journal of Functional Foods

DOI: 10.1016/j.jff.2026.107165

Authors: Nada Ahmed, Mohamed El-Fateh, Moussa S. Diarra, Xin Zhao

Institutions: Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada, Guelph Research and Development Centre, McGill University

Language: English

Topic: Genomics, phytochemicals, and oxidative stress

Subfield: Molecular Biology

Field: Biochemistry, Genetics and Molecular Biology

Domain: Life Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $2,800