Phytomedicines and Nutraceuticals: Alternative Therapeutics for Sickle Cell Anemia
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Date
2013
Authors
Imaga, Ngozi Awa
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Hindawi Publishing Corporation
Abstract
Sickle cell anemia is a genetically inherited disease in which the “SS” individual possesses an abnormal beta globin gene. A single
base substitution in the gene encoding the human 𝛽-globin subunit results in replacement of 𝛽6 glutamic acid by valine, leading to
the devastating clinical manifestations of sickle cell disease. This substitution causes drastic reduction in the solubility of sickle
cell hemoglobin (HbS) when deoxygenated. Under these conditions, the HbS molecules polymerize to form long crystalline
intracellular mass of fibers which are responsible for the deformation of the biconcave disc shaped erythrocyte into a sickle
shape. First-line clinical management of sickle cell anemia include, use of hydroxyurea, folic acid, amino acids supplementation,
penicillinprophylaxis, and antimalarial prophylaxis to manage the condition and blood transfusions to stabilize the patient’s
hemoglobin level. These are quite expensive and have attendant risk factors. However, a bright ray of hope involving research
into antisickling properties of medicinal plants has been rewarding. This alternative therapy using phytomedicines has proven to
not only reduce crisis but also reverse sickling (in vitro). The immense benefits of phytomedicines and nutraceuticals used in the
management of sickle cell anemia are discussed in this paper.
Description
Keywords
Research Subject Categories::NATURAL SCIENCES::Chemistry::Biochemistry , sickle cell anemia
Citation
Ngozi Awa Imaga The Scientific World Journal. Vol. 2013 Article II. DOI: 10.1155/2013/269659 PubMed PMID 23476125