Viral Infections & Chronic Lung Diseases Stopped by Quercetin
University of Michigan at Ann Arbor conducted a research project to learn the connection between Asthma, cystic fibrosis and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and the answer is a minor infection, the common cold. Rhinovirus, a single-stranded RNA virus from the picomaviridae family, triggers a majority of colds as well as outbreaks of cystic fibrosis and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.
Scientists in the research team discovered a natural compound, a flavonoid called quercetin that prevents Rhinovirus from replicating. They also found that quercetin is anti-inflammatory. The study’s results were presented at the American Thoracic Society 2010.
The study was designed to test quercetin on cells infected with Rhinovirus. Quercetin is a flavonoid found in onions, apples, red grapes and other foods. Earlier research has shown it has the following properties; it is a powerful antihistamine, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory. Because of the flavonoid’s properties, the research team conceived the concept that quercetin might reduce RV’s capacity to produce an inflammatory response. Oxidative stress can be brought on by inflammation and this will disrupt the activity of the epithelial cells inside an airway making it difficult for the patient to breathe.
Researchers engaged in laboratory experiments using cells infected with Rhinovirus and learned they were correct. When the data was compiled, it indicated quercetin inhibited the virus’s ability to replicate. Data also showed that quercetin retarded the Rhinovirus’s generated immune system reaction to engender cytokines, which is one of the specific groups of cells in the immune system.
In conclusion, the researchers found quercetin could be beneficial in the treatment of viral infections, particularly with patients with hidden chronic lung disease.
Because of the project’s success with quercetin, the research team was able to give the world fantastic news. This is not only good news for people suffering from a common cold, but also from serious disorders such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and cystic fibrosis. Plus, quercetin will give those afflicted with these disorders the ability to breathe with less effort. The problems of coughing, wheezing, chest tightness and shortness of breath will be relieved or eliminated. In the opinion of the National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute, the fourth largest cause of death in the United States is chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, or COPD. Cystic Fibrosis is a terrible inherited chronic disorder affecting over 30,000 children and adults in our country. All of these unfortunate people suffer because their body is not able to block the production of thick, sticky mucus which disrupts the lungs and has the possibility of contracting life threatening lung infections.
This research has added to the building information supporting the value of quercetin and its ability to fight viral infections and give protection from a growing number of human health problems.
DISCLAIMER: I am not a Doctor and do not give medical advice; this is a news report and cannot substitute for the advice of a medical professional
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