Dual effects of endogenous formaldehyde on the organism and drugs for its removal

摘要

Endogenous formaldehyde (FA) is produced in the human body via various mechanisms to preserve healthy energy metabolism and safeguard the organism. However, endogenous FA can have several negative effects on the body through epigenetic alterations, including cancer growth promotion; neuronal, hippocampal and endothelial damages; atherosclerosis acceleration; haemopoietic stem cell destruction and haemopoietic cell production reduction. Certain medications with antioxidant effects, such as glutathione, vitamin E, resveratrol, alpha lipoic acid and polyphenols, lessen the detrimental effects of endogenous FA by reducing oxidative stress, directly scavenging endogenous FA or promoting its degradation. This study offers fresh perspectives for managing illnesses associated with endogenous FA exposure. @@@ This article reviews the physiological and pathological mechanisms underlying the production and metabolism of endogenous formaldehyde, as well as its bidirectional regulatory effects on the human body. Finally, drugs that eliminate endogenous formaldehyde are summarized. This review provides a new perspective on how to treat diseases caused by endogenous formaldehyde in the future.

关键词