Compendium of the most significant studies with reference to properties, intake, effects.

Maffucci, Tania, and Marco Falasca. “Signalling Properties of Inositol Polyphosphates.” Molecules (Basel, Switzerland) vol. 25,22 5281. 12 Nov. 2020, doi:10.3390/molecules25225281

Abstract. Several studies have identified specific signalling functions for inositol polyphosphates (IPs) in different cell types and have led to the accumulation of new information regarding their cellular roles as well as new insights into their cellular production. These studies have revealed that interaction of IPs with several proteins is critical for stabilization of protein complexes and for modulation of enzymatic activity. This has not only revealed their importance in regulation of several cellular processes but it has also highlighted the possibility of new pharmacological interventions in multiple diseases, including cancer. In this review, we describe some of the intracellular roles of IPs and we discuss the pharmacological opportunities that modulation of IPs levels can provide.

Brouns F. Phytic Acid and Whole Grains for Health Controversy. Nutrients. 2021 Dec 22;14(1):25. doi: 10.3390/nu14010025. 

Abstract.  In vitro essays have limitations, such as the absence of blood flow, hormonal responses, neural regulation, gut epithelium associated factors and the presence of microbiota, which mutually influence the in vivo effects and should be considered. In Western countries, increased consumption of whole grain foods is associated with improved health outcomes, which does not justify advice to refrain from grain-based foods because they contain Phytate . The present commentary aims to clarify these seemingly controversial aspects.

Urbano G, López-Jurado M, Aranda P, Vidal-Valverde C, Tenorio E, Porres J. The role of phytic acid in legumes: antinutrient or beneficial function? J Physiol Biochem. 2000 Sep;56(3):283-94. doi: 10.1007/BF03179796.

Abstract. This review describes the present state of knowledge about phytic acid (phytate), which is often present in legume seeds. The antinutritional effects of phytic acid primarily relate to the strong chelating associated with its six reactive phosphate groups. Its ability to complex with proteins and particularly with minerals has been a subject of investigation from chemical and nutritional viewpoints. 

Cheryan M. Phytic acid interactions in food systems. Crit Rev Food Sci Nutr. 1980;13(4):297-335. doi: 10.1080/10408398009527293.

Abstract.  Concern about its presence in food arises from evidence that it decreases the bioavailability of many essential minerals by interacting with multivalent cations and/or proteins to form complexes that may be insoluble or otherwise unavailable under physiologic conditions. 

Masunaga T, Murao N, Tateishi H, Koga R, Ohsugi T, Otsuka M, Fujita M. Anti-cancer activity of the cell membrane-permeable phytic acid prodrug. Bioorg Chem. 2019 Nov;92:103240. doi: 10.1016/j.bioorg.2019.103240.

Abstract. Phytic acid (IP6) is an ingredient in cereals and legumes, and limited amounts of this compound are considered to enter the cell and exert anti-cancer effects. These effects have been seen by studying cells treated with around 1-5 mM IP6.

Fox CH, Eberl M. Phytic acid (IP6), novel broad spectrum anti-neoplastic agent: a systematic review. Complement Ther Med. 2002 Dec;10(4):229-34. doi: 10.1016/s0965-2299(02)00092-4. 

Abstract. A Medline search from 1966 to May 2002 using the keywords phytic acid and cancer, and limiting the search to the subheadings of therapeutic uses, prevention, and adverse effects revealed 28 studies. These studies were included in the review.

Zhou JR, Erdman JW Jr. Phytic acid in health and disease. Crit Rev Food Sci Nutr. 1995 Nov;35(6):495-508. doi: 10.1080/10408399509527712.

Abstract.  Finally, certain inositol phosphates, which may be derived from PA, have been noted to have a function in second messenger transduction systems. The potential nutritional significance of Phytic acid is discussed in this review.

Graf E, Eaton JW. Antioxidant functions of phytic acid. Free Radic Biol Med. 1990;8(1):61-9. doi: 10.1016/0891-5849(90)90146-a.

Abstract. Its addition to foods inhibits lipid peroxidation and concomitant oxidative spoilage, such as discoloration, putrefaction, and syneresis. A multitude of other industrial applications are based on the antioxidant function of phytic acid.

Martínez Domínguez B, Ibáñez Gómez MV, Rincón León F. Acido fítico: aspectos nutricionales e implicaciones analíticas. Phytic acid: nutritional aspects and analytical implications. Arch Latinoam Nutr. 2002 Sep;52(3):219-31. 

Abstract. This review provides a current summary of the literature concerning various aspects of phytic acid. These include data relative to its chemical structure and physicochemical properties, its occurrence in numerous cereals and legumes, and its role in plants. In addition, the nutritional significance of phytate with regard to its protein and mineral binding abilities, its health benefits and the methods commonly used for the analysis of phytate are discussed.