Dual faces of itaconate and its derivatives: exploring diverse biological functions in immunity and infectious diseases

The intersection of immunology and infectious diseases has been revolutionized by the emergence of immunometabolism, highlighting the critical role of metabolic processes in regulating immune responses. In recent years, itaconate alongside its derivatives dimethyl-itaconate (DMI) and 4-octyl-itaconate (4-OI), have received attention for their potent immunomodulatory and antimicrobial properties. This review examines the unique roles of itaconate and its derivatives in modulating immune functions and their implications in infectious diseases. We also explore their structural and functional discrepancies. Notably, while itaconate generally exhibits anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial effects, its derivatives may operate through distinct mechanisms, often exhibiting enhanced electrophilic properties. This review of recent research underscores the potential of itaconate and its derivatives as therapeutic agents, paving the way for future clinical applications in managing inflammation and infectious diseases.