Natural sources and bioactive mechanisms of anti-inflammatory peptides: from digestive metabolism to bioavailability enhancement strategies.
Hu Shengbing, Liang Liwen, Peng Xinyi, Zhang Wei, Li Wen, Deng Jing, Zhong Feifei, Lin Qinlu, Zhou Peng, He Jintao, Luo Feijun, Mwaikono Kilaza Samson
Abstract
Anti-inflammatory peptides (AIPs), a class of biologically active molecules with high specificity and low toxicity, demonstrate outstanding potential in replacing traditional anti-inflammatory drugs. In this review, the multiple natural sources of AIPs (including marine organisms, terrestrial plants and animals, and microorganisms) are comprehensively reviewed, and their core molecular mechanisms to inhibit inflammatory responses through the synergistic regulation of key signaling pathways such as NF-κB, MAPK, PI3K/Akt, JAK/STAT, and Keap1-Nrf2 are examined. To address the bioavailability bottlenecks of AIPs' oral delivery, such as gastrointestinal degradation and low intestinal permeability, this review systematically analyzes the mechanisms of action of enhancement strategies, including nanocarrier technologies and chemical modification methods. Finally, we propose cutting-edge future directions such as artificial intelligence-guided design and innovative combination therapies to accelerate their clinical translation. This work provides not only a solid theoretical foundation but also practical insights for the development of AIPs as next-generation anti-inflammatory ingredients.
Key Findings
- Anti-inflammatory peptides (AIPs) from natural sources show high specificity and low toxicity as potential alternatives to traditional anti-inflammatory drugs.
- AIPs inhibit inflammatory responses through multiple signaling pathways including NF-κB, MAPK, PI3K/Akt, JAK/STAT, and Keap1-Nrf2.
- Bioavailability challenges of AIPs are addressed by enhancement strategies such as nanocarrier technologies and chemical modification methods.
Clinical Significance
The study highlights the therapeutic potential of AIPs as next-generation anti-inflammatory agents and proposes strategies to improve their oral bioavailability, paving the way for their clinical translation.
Citation
Hu Shengbing, Liang Liwen, Peng Xinyiet al.. Natural sources and bioactive mechanisms of anti-inflammatory peptides: from digestive metabolism to bioavailability enhancement strategies. Food chemistry. 2026-Mar-30.