Bacteriocins: Potential for Human Health

Figure 3

Anti-inflammation and immunomodulation effect of bacteriocins. (a) For the anti-inflammatory effect, some bacteriocins can increase anti-inflammatory cytokine levels, decrease proinflammatory cytokine levels, and maintain the balance between immune cells by inhibiting the activation of inflammatory signaling pathways in a state of inflammation. Some bacteriocins can act directly on pathogenic bacteria or reduce colonization of pathogenic bacteria by stimulating the production of antimicrobial substances. Some bacteriocins can promote the expression of intestinal tight junction proteins and strengthen the intestinal barrier. (b) For immune regulation, some bacteriocins can promote the body to produce inflammatory cytokines and promote the phagocytosis of macrophages, thus boosting the immunity and achieving immune regulation in the immunosuppressive state.