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Current Drug Metabolism

Editor-in-Chief

ISSN (Print): 1389-2002
ISSN (Online): 1875-5453

Bioavailability of Flavonoids: A Review of Their Membrane Transport and the Function of Bilitranslocase in Animal and Plant Organisms

Author(s): Sabina Passamonti, Michela Terdoslavich, Raffaella Franca, Andreja Vanzo, Federica Tramer, Enrico Braidot, Elisa Petrussa and Angelo Vianello

Volume 10, Issue 4, 2009

Page: [369 - 394] Pages: 26

DOI: 10.2174/138920009788498950

Abstract

Fruits and vegetables are rich in flavonoids, and ample epidemiological data show that diets rich in fruits and vegetables confer protection against cardiovascular, neurodegenerative and inflammatory diseases, and cancer. However, flavonoid bioavailability is reportedly very low in mammals and the molecular mechanisms of their action are still poorly known. This review focuses on membrane transport of flavonoids, a critical determinant of their bioavailability. Cellular influx and efflux transporters are reviewed for their involvement in the absorption of flavonoids from the gastro-intestinal tract and their subsequent tissue distribution. A focus on the mammalian bilirubin transporter bilitranslocase (TCDB 2.A.65.1.1) provides further insight into flavonoid bioavailability and its relationship with plasma bilirubin (an endogenous antioxidant). The general function of bilitranslocase as a flavonoid membrane transporter is further demonstrated by the occurrence of a plant homologue in organs (petals, berries) where flavonoid biosynthesis is most active. Bilitranslocase appears associated with sub-cellular membrane compartments and operates as a flavonoid membrane transporter.

Keywords: Flavonoids, bioavailability, membrane transporters, bilitranslocase, mammals, plants


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