• Media type: E-Article
  • Title: Immunomodulatory and antimicrobial effects of vitamin C
  • Contributor: Mousavi, Soraya; Bereswill, Stefan; Heimesaat, Markus M.
  • imprint: Akademiai Kiado Zrt., 2019
  • Published in: European Journal of Microbiology and Immunology
  • Language: Not determined
  • DOI: 10.1556/1886.2019.00016
  • ISSN: 2062-8633
  • Origination:
  • Footnote:
  • Description: <jats:p>Humans have lost their vitamin C-synthesizing capacities during evolution. Therefore, the uptake of this essential compound from external sources is mandatory in order to prevent vitamin C-deficient conditions resulting in severe morbidities such as scurvy. The potent antioxidant, immunomodulatory, and antiinfectious effects of vitamin C are known since the 1930s. We here (i) review the impact of vitamin C on innate and adaptive immune functions, (ii) provide an overview of its antimicrobial, antibacterial, antiviral, antiparasitic, and antifungal properties, and finally, (iii) discuss vitamin C as an adjunct treatment option for the combat of human infections by bacteria, particularly by emerging multidrug-resistant species.</jats:p>
  • Access State: Open Access