Effect of carotenoid fucoxanthin associated vitamin C in the function of human neutrophils in vitro

Abstract

Several conditions such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease and obesity are increasingly being associated with oxidative stress, which is characterized by an imbalance in the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in relation to the body's antioxidant capacity. As a defense mechanism, the body produces a series of endogenous antioxidants able to scavenge the reactive oxygen species (ROS). The antioxidant defense system is formed by enzymatic and non-enzymatic compounds, both present in the body and in food intake. However, under conditions of oxidative stress, the ability of these antioxidants in the elimination of ROS is often outdated and therefore sources of dietary antioxidants or drugs are needed. Neutrophils are the main peripheral blood leukocytes. The large number of polymorphonuclear cells in blood, the effectiveness in their recruitment and their phagocytic and antimicrobial actions allow them to be the first line of organism's defense. The elimination of pathogens is achieved by the release of cytoplasmic granules containing lysosomal enzymes but also by ROS generation through NADPH oxidase. The release of reactive oxygen species and cytokines in an uncontrolled manner by polymorphonuclear can provide tissue damage and contribute to the progression of some diseases. Fucoxanthin (FUCO) is a carotenoid derived from brown algae that has been widely studied for its antioxidant, anticancer and antiobesity properties. However, until the moment there is no data about the effects of this carotenoid in neutrophil function. Thus, this work aims to analyze the effects of FUCO associated or not with vitamin C in the function of neutrophils from healthy individuals in vitro. We will evaluate several functional and oxidative parameters such as phagocytic and fungicide capacity, superoxide, hydrogen peroxide, and hypochlorous acid production, release of proinflammatory cytokines, chemotactic ability and phosphorylation of key proteins for cellular function. This study may contribute to understanding the specific action of FUCO on immune cells, specifically neutrophils. (AU)