Nanotechnology as a Tool to Mitigate the Effects of Intestinal Microbiota on Metabolization of Anthocyanins

Author(s)

Osvaldt Rosales, Thiecla Katiane ; Aymoto Hassimotto, Neuza Mariko ; Lajolo, Franco Maria ; Fabi, Joao Paulo

• Document type: Journal article
• Source: ANTIOXIDANTS; v. 11, n. 3, p. 22-pg., 2022-03-01.

Abstract

Anthocyanins are an important group of phenolic compounds responsible for pigmentation in several plants. For humans, a regular intake is associated with a reduced risk of several diseases. However, molecular instability reduces the absorption and bioavailability of these compounds. Anthocyanins are degraded by external factors such as the presence of light, oxygen, temperature, and changes in pH ranges. In addition, the digestion process contributes to chemical degradation, mainly through the action of intestinal microbiota. The intestinal microbiota has a fundamental role in the biotransformation and metabolization of several dietary compounds, thus modifying the chemical structure, including anthocyanins. This biotransformation leads to low absorption of intact anthocyanins, and consequently, low bioavailability of these antioxidant compounds. Several studies have been conducted to seek alternatives to improve stability and protect against intestinal microbiota degradation. This comprehensive review aims to discuss the existing knowledge about the structure of anthocyanins while discussing human absorption, distribution, metabolism, and bioavailability after the oral consumption of anthocyanins. This review will highlight the use of nanotechnology systems to overcome anthocyanin biotransformation by the intestinal microbiota, pointing out the safety and effectiveness of nanostructures to maintain molecular stability. (AU)

• FAPESP's process: 19/11816-8 - Effect of papaya modified fibers on three-dimensional co-culture of human colon cancer cells and on in vivo model of rats with chemically induced colon carcinogenesis
• Grantee: Joao Paulo Fabi
• Support Opportunities: Regular Research Grants
• FAPESP's process: 12/23970-2 - Biological changes of papaya pectins with possible benefits to human health
• Grantee: Joao Paulo Fabi
• Support Opportunities: Research Grants - Young Investigators Grants
• FAPESP's process: 13/07914-8 - FoRC - Food Research Center
• Grantee: Bernadette Dora Gombossy de Melo Franco
• Support Opportunities: Research Grants - Research, Innovation and Dissemination Centers - RIDC