Chemistry, Stability and Bioavailability of Resveratrol

Abstract

Resveratrol is a bioactive polyphenol found in many vegetables. It is well known for its multiple pharmacological activities, such as anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antimicrobial, anticancer, neuroprotective and cardioprotective effects. In vitro evidence of resveratrol efficacy is widespread, however, many concerns regarding its effectiveness in vivo arise from its poor stability in vitro and bioavailability following oral ingestion. This review focuses on the in vitro stability, with special focus on the photochemical stability of resveratrol, and on the therapeutic perspectives of this molecule due to its low bioavailability.

Therapeutic Potential of Resveratrol for Cardiovascular Protection

“…Although over 70% of resveratrol taken orally is readily absorbed across the gastrointestinal epithelium, the oral bioavailability is less than 1%, due to rapid and extensive first pass metabolism mainly by Phase II conjugation to form sulfate and glucuronide metabolites [17,18]. It is poorly water soluble and also unstable chemically, which requires advanced designer formulation such as micro-and nanoencapsulation using suitable carriers to improve oral delivery for systemic applications [17].…”

Therapeutic Potential of Resveratrol in Complementary Medicine for Chronic Diseases Management

“…Despite over 70% of resveratrol taking orally is absorbed across the gastrointestinal epithelium, the oral bioavailability is less than 1% because of rapid and extensive first pass metabolism mainly by Phase II metabolic reaction to sulfate and glucuronide conjugates [22,23]. It is not water soluble and also chemically unstable which requires development of custom designed formulation optimized specifically for resveratrol to enhance its oral delivery such as using micro-and nano-encapsulation with suitable carriers [22].…”

Modification and stabilizing effects of PEG on resveratrol-loaded solid lipid nanoparticles

“…Resveratrol (RES) is a natural polyphenolic bioactive compound, which exhibits various physiological activities, including antioxidant, anti-tumor, blood lipid regulation and antibacterial activity [3,4]. However, the potential therapeutic application of resveratrol is limited due to its poor water solubility, sensitivity to light and heat, weak absorption properties and extensive metabolism [5]. Incorporation of resveratrol into SLNs may improve stability, enhance its oral bioavailability and minimize difficulties associated with drug delivery [6,7].…”