Sea Urchin Pigments: Echinochrome A and Its Potential Implication in the Cytokine Storm Syndrome

Background: Echinochrome A (EchA) is a pigment from sea urchins. EchA is a polyhydroxylated 1,4-naphthoquinone that contains several hydroxyl groups appropriate for free-radical scavenging and preventing redox imbalance. EchA is the most studied molecule of this family and is an active principle approved to be used in humans, usually for cardiopathies and glaucoma. EchA is used as a pharmaceutical drug. Methods: A comprehensive literature and patent search review was undertaken using PubMed, as well as Google Scholar and Espacenet search engines to review these areas. Conclusions: In the bloodstream, EchA can mediate cellular responses, act as a radical scavenger, and activate the glutathione pathway. It decreases ROS imbalance, prevents and limits lipid peroxidation, and enhances mitochondrial functions. Most importantly, EchA contributes to the modulation of the immune system. EchA can regulate the generation of regulatory T cells, inhibit pro-inflammatory IL-1 beta and IL-6 cytokine production, while slightly reducing IL-8, TNF-alpha, INF-alpha, and NKT, thus correcting immune imbalance. These characteristics suggest that EchA is a candidate drug to alleviate the cytokine storm syndrome (CSS).

Automated summary

Echinochrome A (EchA) is a pigment from sea urchins that can mediate cellular responses, act as a radical scavenger, and activate the glutathione pathway. It works by balancing ROS, preventing lipid peroxidation, enhancing mitochondrial functions, and regulating the immune system.