The role of ascorbic acid and monosodium glutamate in thymocyte apoptosis

The studies on experimental animals have confirmed toxic effect of monosodium glutamate in different organs, mainly manifested by increased oxidative stress and cytotoxicity, strongly correlated with numerous diseases. Continuous intake of this flavor enhancer in modern nutrition also resulted with toxic effects on human health, known as Chinese restaurant syndrome. The reference data about influence of monosodium glutamate on the cells of the immune system or primary immune organs and possible protective effects of specific antioxidants are still largely unknown. This review summarizes recently known facts about the role of monosodium glutamate in the cells of the immune system, especially in thymocytes. Also, in this review many new data on positive effects of ascorbic acid on immune system and the mechanisms of its protective influence on thymocytes are discussed (Tab. 1, Ref. 52).