The mechanism by which the flu virus damages the lungs has not been fully understood. Plants contain potent antioxidants that counteract free-radicals (unstable molecules that cause damage to cells) and protect against inflammation and chronic disease. Now research reports that antioxidants may help prevent lung damage caused by the flu.
"The recent outbreak of H1N1 influenza and the rapid spread of this strain across the world highlights the need to better understand how this virus damages the lungs and to find new treatments," states study author Sadis Matalon, in a news release. "Additionally, our research shows that antioxidants may prove beneficial in the treatment of flu."
The study, published in The FASEB Journal, investigated the effects of the influenza M2 protein on lung epithelial cells. Researchers at the University of Alabama at Birmingham conducted three experiments using the M2 protein. In the first experiment, the researchers injected frog eggs with lung protein to assess its function. In the second experiment, the frog eggs were injected with M2 protein and lung protein. They found a decrease in lung protein function. The scientists then isolated the M2 protein segment that caused damage to the lung protein.
In the third experiment, the frog eggs were injected with M2 protein, lung protein and antioxidant drugs. They found that the M2 protein did not damage the lung protein. "These novel findings suggest a mechanism for the influenza-induced rhinorrhea and life-threatening alveolar edema in humans," the study authors write. This discovery may create an opportunity for developing new flu treatments.
Seasonal Support Combats Cold and Flu
Supplementing with natural nutrients like antioxidants during the cold and flu season may help fight infections and provide symptom relief.
Progressive Health's Seasonal Support is a cold and flu remedy featuring antioxidants and researched nutrients like elderberry, zinc, vitamin C, bromelain, spirulina, inositol, astragulus, beta glucan, echinacea, golden seal and immune enhancer AG. Seasonal Support may help provide maximum immune support during colds and flu season.
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