Potential Micronutrients and Phytochemicals against the Pathogenesis of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease and Lung Cancer

Abstract

Lung cancer and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease have shared etiology, including key etiological changes (e.g., DNA damage and epigenetics change) and lung function impairment. Focusing on those shared targets may help in the prevention of both. Certain micronutrients (vitamins and minerals) and phytochemicals (carotenoids and phenols) have potent antioxidant or methyl-donating properties and thus have received considerable interest. We reviewed recent papers probing into the potential of nutrients with respect to lung function preservation and prevention of lung cancer risk, and suggest several hypothetical intervention patterns. Intakes of vitamins (i.e., A, C, D, E, B12), carotenoids, flavonoids, curcumins, resveratrol, magnesium, and omega-3 fatty acids all show protective effects against lung function loss, some mainly by improving average lung function and others through reducing decline rate. Dietary interventions early in life may help lung function reserve over the lifespan. Protective nutrient interventions among smokers are likely to mitigate the effects of cigarettes on lung health. We also discuss their underlying mechanisms and some possible causes for the inconsistent results in observational studies and supplementation trials. The role of the lung microbiome on lung health and its potential utility in identifying protective nutrients are discussed as well. More prospective cohorts and well-designed clinical trials are needed to promote the transition of individualized nutrient interventions into health policy.

Vitamin A Deficiency and the Lung

“…In this context, it is important to point out that alcohol abuse which is known to induce vitamin A depletion and tobacco smoking are conditions commonly associated in adult population [ 36 , 58 , 169 ]. Accordingly, a higher vitamin A and β-carotene intake is proposed in patients suffering from lung diseases such as COPD, however with caution, since the elevated intake of β-carotene and retinol could increase the incidence of lung cancer and cardiovascular disease mortality (see Section 4.5 ) [ 58 , 150 , 169 , 170 , 171 , 172 ].…”

Respiratory

“…Vitamin A deficiency has been shown to be associated with emphysema in rats. Smoke exposure significantly decreases vitamin A concentration in lung tissue, significantly more in those with COPD [70].…”

“…The non-provitamin A carotenoids have also shown some benefit. Lycopene, found in high amounts in guavas, watermelon, tomatoes, papaya, grapefruit, sweet red peppers, asparagus, purple cabbage, mangos, and carrots, slowed forced expiratory volume (FEV) decline in former smokers [70].…”

Biological plausibility for interactions between dietary fat, resveratrol, ACE2, and SARS-CoV illness severity

“…Resveratrol is a polyphenolic compound found in plant-based foods, such as red wine, berries, grapes, cocoa, and other foods. This compound is known for its potential protective effect against a number of conditions including cancer, cardiovascular disease, and respiratory illness (2,33,42). To date, three studies have assessed the impact of resveratrol on ACE2 activity.…”