[Cranberry (Vaccinium macrocarpon) and urinary tract infections: study model and review of literature]

Pathol Biol (Paris). 2007 Nov;55(8-9):460-4. doi: 10.1016/j.patbio.2007.07.005. Epub 2007 Oct 1.
[Article in French]

Abstract

Cranberries (Vaccinium macrocarpon) have long been the focus of interest for their beneficial effects in preventing urinary tract infections. Among cranberry compounds, a group of proanthocyanidins (PACs) with A-type linkages were isolated which exhibit bacterial anti-adhesion activity against uropathogenic Escherichia coli strains. These PAC inhibit P-fimbriae synthesis and induce a bacterial deformation. This activity was demonstrated on both antibiotic susceptible and resistant bacteria. This review focused on the last discoveries in the knowledge of cranberry effects.

Publication types

  • English Abstract

MeSH terms

  • Anti-Bacterial Agents / isolation & purification
  • Chromosome Mapping
  • Diet
  • Drug Resistance, Bacterial
  • Humans
  • Microbial Sensitivity Tests
  • Proanthocyanidins / analysis*
  • Proanthocyanidins / pharmacology
  • Proanthocyanidins / therapeutic use*
  • Urinary Tract Infections / prevention & control*
  • Vaccinium macrocarpon* / chemistry
  • Vaccinium macrocarpon* / genetics

Substances

  • Anti-Bacterial Agents
  • Proanthocyanidins