Title:An Overview of Pathological Pathway of Asthma and Molecular Mechanisms of Anti-Asthmatic Phytoconstituents
Volume: 20
Issue: 4
Author(s): Aysha Javed, Sristi Srivastava, Anas Khan, Badruddeen .*, Juber Akhtar, Mohammad Irfan Khan and Mohammad Ahmad
Affiliation:
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Integral University, Kursi Road, Lucknow-226026, Uttar Pradesh, India
Keywords:
Asthma, pathological pathways, immuno-inflammatory mediators, phytobioactives, polyphenols, bronchodilator.
Abstract: Asthma presents with chronic inflammation and airway constriction triggered by allergens
or pollution. Inflammatory mediators such as histamine and leukotrienes, released in response
to inflammation, prompt bronchoconstriction, contracting the smooth muscles around the
airways. This constriction obstructs airflow and worsens symptoms such as coughing, wheezing,
and breathlessness. Additionally, airways become hyperresponsive, reacting excessively even to
harmless stimuli. Persistent inflammation leads to the production of thick mucus, further blocking
airflow and worsening symptoms. Mast cell-released histamine triggers bronchoconstriction,
leukotrienes, and prostaglandins (e.g., Interleukin-4, Interleukin-13) and promotes airway inflammation
while cytokines drive Th2-mediated immune responses. Current therapies in asthma include
long-acting beta agonists, leukotriene modifiers, inhaled corticosteroids, and immunomodulators.
Natural products, due to their anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and immunomodulatory properties,
have emerged as promising anti-asthmatic candidates. Polyphenols (quercetin, resveratrol,
curcumin, etc.) and Omega-3 fatty acids offer anti-inflammatory benefits by suppressing cytokines
and oxidative stress. Natural products intervene at various levels of these pathways.
Quercetin inhibits the release of mast cell histamines, alleviating bronchoconstriction. Curcumin
suppresses Th2 cytokines, mitigating the allergic response. Omega-3 fatty acids modulate
leukotriene and prostaglandin production, reducing airway inflammation. This review concludes
that natural phytobioactives have potential in asthma management due to their complex mechanisms
that target various immuno-inflammatory mediators.
