Anti-allergic effects of vitamin E in allergic diseases: An updated review

Int Immunopharmacol. 2021 Jan:90:107196. doi: 10.1016/j.intimp.2020.107196. Epub 2020 Nov 19.

Abstract

Allergic diseases are caused by the immune system's response to innocent antigens called allergens. Recent decades have seen a significant increase in the prevalence of allergic diseases worldwide, which has imposed various socio-economic effects in different countries. Various factors, including genetic factors, industrialization, improved hygiene, and climate change contribute to the development of allergic diseases in many parts of the world. Moreover, changes in lifestyle and diet habits play pivotal roles in the prevalence of allergic diseases. Dietary changes caused by decreased intake of antioxidants such as vitamin E lead to the generation of oxidative stress, which is central to the development of allergic diseases. It has been reported in many articles that oxidative stress diverts immune responses to the cells associated with the pathogenesis of allergic diseases. The aim of this short review was to summarize current knowledge about the anti-allergic properties of vitamin E.

Keywords: Allergic rhinitis; Antioxidant; Asthma; Atopic dermatitis; Food allergy; Vitamin E.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Anti-Allergic Agents / therapeutic use*
  • Anti-Inflammatory Agents / therapeutic use*
  • Antioxidants / therapeutic use*
  • Humans
  • Hypersensitivity / drug therapy*
  • Hypersensitivity / immunology
  • Hypersensitivity / metabolism
  • Immune System / drug effects*
  • Immune System / immunology
  • Immune System / metabolism
  • Inflammation Mediators / metabolism
  • Oxidative Stress / drug effects
  • Vitamin E / therapeutic use*

Substances

  • Anti-Allergic Agents
  • Anti-Inflammatory Agents
  • Antioxidants
  • Inflammation Mediators
  • Vitamin E