The role of Pycnogenol in the control of inflammation and oxidative stress in chronic diseases: Molecular aspects

Abstract

The prevalence of chronic diseases has increased significantly with the rising trend of sedentary lifestyles, reduced physical activity, and dietary modifications in recent decades. Inflammation and oxidative stress play a key role in the pathophysiology of several chronic diseases, such as type II diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, and hepatic conditions. Therefore, reducing inflammation and oxidative stress may be beneficial in the prevention and treatment of various chronic disorders. Since chronic diseases are not completely curable, various methods have been proposed for their control. Complementary therapies and the use of natural antioxidant and antiinflammatory compounds are among these novel approaches. Pycnogenol (PYC) is a natural compound that could control inflammation and oxidative stress. Furthermore, some previous studies have shown that PYC could effectively reduce inflammation through signaling the downstream of insulin receptors, inhibiting the phosphorylation of the serine residues of insulin receptor substrate‐1, reducing pro‐inflammatory cytokines and oxidative stress indices through the stimulation of antioxidant pathways, increasing free radical scavenging activities, preventing lipid peroxidation, and protecting the erythrocytes in glucose‐6‐phosphate dehydrogenase‐deficient individuals, although these effects have not been fully proved. The present study aimed to comprehensively review the evidence concerning the positive physiological and pharmacological properties of PYC, with an emphasis on the therapeutic potential of this natural component for enhancing human health.

Pycnogenol® French maritime pine bark extract in randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled human clinical studies

“…Pycnogenol ® ’s unique composition of bioactive substances with diverse biological targets explains its efficacy on a broad range of human health conditions. The mechanisms of action of Pycnogenol ® were explored in several in vitro , in vivo and in clinical studies over the years ( 27 ). Randomized double-blind placebo-controlled (RDP) clinical trials help clarify and confirm some of the mechanisms of action of Pycnogenol ® at the molecular level.…”

“…Pycnogenol ® has been shown to have four main effects being its antioxidative effects ( 9 – 14 ), its anti-inflammatory action ( 15 – 18 ), its positive impact on blood circulation ( 9 , 19 – 24 ) and its reinforcing effects on the extracellular matrix ( 25 , 26 ) ( Figure 1 ). Mainly through these mechanisms ( 27 ), Pycnogenol ® supplementation has been shown in RDP human clinical trials to beneficially affect cardiovascular health ( 9 , 11 , 12 , 20 – 22 , 28 – 31 ), chronic venous insufficiency ( 32 , 33 ), cognition ( 13 , 14 , 34 – 39 ), joint health ( 40 – 42 ), skin health ( 43 , 44 ), eye health ( 45 , 46 ), women’s health ( 12 , 47 , 48 ), respiratory health and allergies ( 49 – 51 ), oral health ( 52 ) and sports performance ( 53 – 56 ) ( Figure 2 ).…”

Review of the pharmacokinetics of French maritime pine bark extract (Pycnogenol®) in humans

“…So far, roughly 160 clinical studies with over 10,000 participants have been reported for Pycnogenol ® . The results suggested a beneficial impact in various chronic disease states, particularly when inflammation and/or oxidative stress contributed to the pathophysiology ( 9 , 10 ). Documented clinical effects prompted deeper investigations of underlying cellular mechanisms and identification of relevant bioactive molecules.…”

The role of chromium supplementation in cardiovascular risk factors: A comprehensive reviews of putative molecular mechanisms

“…The emergence of complementary therapies appears to be a vital method for physicians to be aware of the risks and advantages of these options [ [9] , [10] , [11] , [12] ]. Amongst various treatment strategies, the use of natural products and minerals seems to be safe, efficient and found naturally in foods [ [13] , [14] , [15] , [16] , [17] ]. It has been shown that minerals such as selenium, magnesium, calcium and chromium can play an important role in cardiovascular health [ 13 , [18] , [19] , [20] ].…”