Current developments on the inhibitory effects of berry polyphenols on digestive enzymes

Issue title: EUROBERRY: Updates on Bioactive Behaviour of Berry Fruits

Article type: Research Article

Authors: McDougall, Gordon J. | Kulkarni, Nimish N. | Stewart, Derek

Affiliations: Plant Products and Food Quality Programme, Scottish Crop Research Institute, Invergowrie, Dundee, Scotland, UK

Note: [] Address for correspondence: Gordon J. McDougall, Plant Products and Food Quality Programme, Scottish Crop Research Institute, Invergowrie, Dundee DD2 5DA, Scotland, UK. Tel.: +44 1382 562731; Fax: +44 1382 562426; E-mail: gordon.mcdougall@scri.ac.uk

Abstract: The recent developments and evidence for the effect of polyphenol components of berries on digestive enzymes has been reviewed. Certain plant polyphenols can inhibit starch digestive enzymes in the gastrointestinal tract and modulate blood glucose control in vivo. Certain berry polyphenol components can inhibit protease activities at levels which could affect protein digestion in the gastrointestinal tract. In addition, other polyphenol components show potential for the inhibition of gastrointestinal lipase activity, which is a proven therapeutic target for the control of obesity through reduced fat digestion. Taking into account the potential synergies for inhibition of starch and lipid digestion by the spectrum of polyphenol components present within berry species, the inhibition of digestive enzymes by dietary polyphenols may be another important mechanism for the health benefits attributed to a diet rich in fruit and vegetables.

Journal: BioFactors, vol. 34, no. 1, pp. 73-80, 2008