Folic acid has been identified to be integral in rapid tissue growth and cell division during fetal development. Different studies indicate folic acid’s importance in improving childhood behavioral outcomes and underline its role as a modifiable risk factor for autism spectrum disorders. The aim of this systematic review is to both elucidate the potential role of folic acid in autism spectrum disorders and to investigate the mechanisms involved. Studies have pointed out a potential beneficial effect of prenatal folic acid maternal supplementation (600 µg) on the risk of autism spectrum disorder onset, but opposite results have been reported as well. Folic acid and/or folinic acid supplementation in autism spectrum disorder diagnosed children has led to improvements, both in some neurologic and behavioral symptoms and in the concentration of one-carbon metabolites. Several authors report an increased frequency of serum auto-antibodies against folate receptor alpha (FRAA) in autism spectrum disorder children. Furthermore, methylene tetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR) polymorphisms showed a significant influence on ASD risk. More clinical trials, with a clear study design, with larger sample sizes and longer observation periods are necessary to be carried out to better evaluate the potential protective role of folic acid in autism spectrum disorder risk.

Since COVID-19 has affected global public health, there has been an urgency to find a solution to limit both the number of infections, and the aggressiveness of the disease once infected. The main characteristic of this infection is represented by a strong alteration of the immune system which, day by day, increases the risk of mortality, and can lead to a multiorgan dysfunction. Because nutritional profile can influence patient’s immunity, we focus our interest on resveratrol, a polyphenolic compound known for its immunomodulating and anti-inflammatory properties. We reviewed all the information concerning the different roles of resveratrol in COVID-19 pathophysiology using PubMed and Scopus as the main databases. Interestingly, we find out that resveratrol may exert its role through different mechanisms. In fact, it has antiviral activity inhibiting virus entrance in cells and viral replication. Resveratrol also improves autophagy and decreases pro-inflammatory agents expression acting as an anti-inflammatory agent. It regulates immune cell response and pro-inflammatory cytokines and prevents the onset of thrombotic events that usually occur in COVID-19 patients. Since resveratrol acts through different mechanisms, the effect could be enhanced, making a totally natural agent particularly effective as an adjuvant in anti COVID-19 therapy.

Background/Objectives: Atherosclerosis remains a leading cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide, with an urgent need for novel preventive and therapeutic strategies. Sirtuin 1 (SIRT1), an NAD⁺-dependent deacetylase, has emerged as a central regulator of vascular homeostasis, modulating oxidative stress, inflammation, lipid metabolism, and endothelial function. Increasing evidence highlights that some natural activators of SIRT1 may be interesting in mitigating the development of cardiovascular diseases. Methods: Searching in the main databases PubMed and Scopus, we made a literature revision, including studies from January 2000 to June 2025, of the major natural SIRT1 activators involved in vascular impairment in order to investigate their potential therapeutic use in atherosclerosis. Results: Among them, resveratrol, quercetin, naringenin, and hydroxytyrosol show the strongest evidence in activating SIRT1 and modulating the essential molecular pathways involved in atherosclerotic disease. These findings span from preclinical to clinical studies, with limited randomized clinical trial data for hard cardiovascular outcomes. Conclusions: This review synthesizes current knowledge on natural SIRT1 activators in the context of atherosclerosis, emphasizing their molecular mechanisms and clinical perspectives. The concept of using nutraceuticals-based interventions targeting SIRT1 may pave the way for innovative strategies in cardiovascular diseases.