IL-22 Activators

IL-22 activators are a class of compounds that can indirectly influence the activity of IL-22 by modulating related biochemical and cellular processes. These compounds do not directly bind to or interact with IL-22, but can modulate its activity via different pathways. For instance, the NF-kB pathway is a common target for many of these compounds. Natural phenols such as curcumin and resveratrol, alkaloids like piperine, and the flavonoid quercetin can activate this pathway, leading to the potential upregulation of IL-22 expression. The organosulfur compound sulforaphane, on the other hand, activates the Nrf2 pathway, also associated with increased IL-22 expression.

The second group of IL-22 activators are compounds that influence the arachidonic acid and eicosanoids pathways, which are known to affect the NF-kB pathway and potentially lead to increased IL-22 expression. This group includes eicosapentaenoic acid and D-panthenol. Moreover, retinoic acid, a metabolite of vitamin A, can regulate gene expression via the retinoic acid receptor (RAR) andretinoid X receptor (RXR), potentially also influencing the NF-kB pathway, and indirectly leading to increased IL-22 expression. Certain compounds, such as capsaicin, an active component of chili peppers, can activate specific receptors like the TRPV1 receptor, which may also influence the NF-kB pathway and indirectly lead to increased IL-22 expression. A distinct subgroup of IL-22 activators includes compounds that act on specific enzymes or receptors, thereby indirectly influencing IL-22 activity. Genistein, an isoflavone, can inhibit tyrosine kinases and impact NF-kB signaling, which may lead to increased IL-22 expression. Similarly, berberine, a quaternary ammonium salt, can inhibit the JAK-STAT pathway, which can indirectly lead to modulation of the NF-kB pathway and potential increase in IL-22 expression. Lastly, indole-3-carbinol, a product of glucosinolate breakdown, can activate the aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR), known to influence the NF-kB pathway, thereby potentially increasing IL-22 expression.