Neuroimmune modulators derived from natural products: Mechanisms and potential therapies

Abstract

Neuroimmunology is a multidisciplinary field that investigates the interactions between the nervous and immune systems. Neuroimmune interactions persist throughout the entire lifespan, and their dysregulation can lead to the onset and development of multiple diseases. Despite significant progress over the past decades in elucidating the interaction between neuroscience and immunology, the exact mechanism underlying neuroimmune crosstalk has not yet been fully elucidated. In recent years, natural products have emerged as a promising avenue for the therapeutic implications of neuroimmune diseases. Naturally derived anti-neuroimmune disease agents, such as polyphenols, flavonoids, alkaloids, and saponins, have been extensively studied for their potential neuroimmune modulatory effects. This comprehensive review delves into the specific molecular mechanisms of bidirectional neuro-immune interactions, with particular emphasis on the role of neuro-immune units. The review synthesizes a substantial body of evidence from in vitro and in vivo experiments as well as clinical studies, highlighting the therapeutic potential of various natural products in intervening in neuroimmune disorders.