Environmental contamination is a prominent topic. Where the exposure to contaminants such as heavy metals (HMs) or polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) is greater, the incidence of chronic degenerative diseases, such as oncologic, is increased. Scientific evidence reports that some phytochemicals are able to interact with HMs and PAHs by interfering with their cellular metabolism, inhibiting their cytotoxic mechanisms or helping to reduce tissue concentrations. In this context arise the idea of a formulation of phytochemicals to employ as bioactive ingredients in the production of a supplement that can contribute to the prevention of chronic-degenerative diseases linked to the exposure to HMs and PAHs both in populations residing in areas affected by the environmental pollution problem and, in general, in sensitive subjects. Based on an accurate literature study and in vitro experimental data, a certain number of compounds have been selected, whose combination will allow the design of an optimal nutraceutical formulation based on the physico-chemical and biological characteristics of the selected molecules. The use of phytochemicals at non-pharmacological concentrations can help reduce the bioaccumulation and toxicity of organic and inorganic micropollutants, bringing beneficial effects to health.
The technology proposes the realization of a prototype of a dietary supplement able to contribute to the prevention of diseases in populations exposed to concentrations of environmental micropollutants higher than the national average. The formulation is the result of experimental evidence and scientific literature data processed with a bioinformatic approach and data mining. In addition, the prototype will take into account the history of use in the nutritional field of the selected compounds, their safety profile and the availability of supply. There is scientific evidence that reports the potential role of compounds and / or extracts against different micropollutants, however, from an initial analysis, the nutraceutical market does not show the presence of products with these application purposes.