Why Are Pro-Inflammatory Enzymes Important?
The complement system is an important weapon in our immune system's arsenal. Inflammatory enzymes (such as COX-2, 5-LOX, and iNOS) are produced by when the complement system is activated in response to: (iii.5, 44)
- Bacteria
- Viruses
- Other microbes
- Toxins (e.g., cobra snake venom)
- Tumor cells
Levels of these inflammatory enzymes are normally very low or inactive. (iii.5)
What Do Pro-Inflammatory Enzymes Do?
When the immune and complement systems are activated in response to potential harm, arachidonic acid is mobilized. Arachidonic acid is a polyunsaturated fatty acid that's part of cell membranes. COX and LOX enzymes break down arachidonic acid to produce substances that do the following: (iii.5, 44)
- Dilate blood vessels and increase permeability.
- Stimulate muscle contractions.
- Trigger pain response.
- Raise body temperature (causing a fever).
- Cause bronchial constriction in lungs.
- Help regulate blood coagulation.
- Enhance immune system mechanisms.
- Generate free radicals to help get rid of diseased cells and toxic microbes. .
What Happens if Inflammatory Enzymes Are Unregulated?
Unregulated activity of inflammatory enzymes and their inflammatory byproducts (such as PGE2) contribute in many diseases and aging. The free radical damage they cause is a primary factor in conditions such as cancer, kidney, and liver disease, and neurodegenerative conditions. (iii.37, 45, 46)
Effects of Turmeric and Turmeric Compounds on Pro-Inflammatory Enzymes
Inhibiting inflammatory enzymes with anti-inflammatory drugs or herbs can help prevent and treat their negative health effects. Turmeric compounds are not only anti-inflammatory, but many have powerful antioxidant effects as well. These can protect cells from the free radical damage caused by unregulated pro-inflammatory enzymes. (iii.1)
Lab, animal, and human studies demonstrate that turmeric contains many nutrients and phytochemical compounds that inhibit inflammatory enzymes, suggesting benefit in a number of diseases such as: (iii.37, 45, 47, 48)
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