Protective effects of taurine against chemical and natural compound-induced toxicity: mechanistic insights and therapeutic potential.

Taurine (2-aminoethanesulfonic acid) is a naturally occurring sulfonic acid that plays vital physiological roles and has recently been recognized for its protective effects against various chemicals such as paraquat, lead, doxorubicin, acrylamide, bisphenol A, carbon tetrachloride, ethanol, and hydrogen peroxide and natural compound-induced toxicities such as lipopolysaccharide, glutamate, and homocysteine. To summarize taurine's protective effects against toxicological damage from chemicals and natural compounds and explore the underlying mechanisms derived from in vitro and in vivo research, a comprehensive review of experimental studies was conducted. The mechanisms underlying taurine's protective effects include antioxidant properties, which reduce oxidative stress by neutralizing reactive oxygen species (ROS) and decreasing lipid peroxidation. Taurine enhances glutathione levels, is crucial for detoxifying harmful substances, and exhibits anti-inflammatory effects by modulating cytokine secretion through pathways like NF-kB. Additionally, it regulates intracellular calcium to prevent excitotoxicity and protects mitochondrial function by preventing oxidative stress and maintaining energy homeostasis. Taurine upregulates phase II detoxification enzymes, thereby improving the metabolism and excretion of xenobiotics and providing neuroprotection by stabilizing neuronal membranes. Overall, these multifaceted mechanisms highlight taurine's potential as a therapeutic agent for mitigating toxicity and promoting cellular health.