Flavonoids as Potential Immunosuppressants Affecting Intracellular Signaling Pathways (a Review)

Abstract

Flavonoids are a large group of polyphenolic compounds that are present in almost all higher plants. Recent research demonstrated a wide range of biological effects of these compounds under both normal and various pathological conditions. Apparently, the biological activity of most flavonoids is due mainly to their ability to penetrate into cells and block enzymes of signaling pathways and transcription factors, including those involved in the activation, proliferation, and realization of effector functions of immune system cells. Moreover, it should be noted that flavonoids were highly efficacious in several instances in experimental therapy of model immune pathologies, suggesting that they were promising as platforms for creating new pharmacological agents that suppress or “normalize” the immune response.