The Search for Dietary Supplements to Elevate or Activate Circulating Paraoxonases

Area of Science:

• Nutrigenetics and Molecular Nutrition
• Biomarker Research
• Cardiovascular Disease Prevention

Background:

• Low paraoxonase 1 (PON1) levels are linked to various pathologies, while high levels offer anti-atherosclerotic benefits.
• PON1 may serve as a valuable surrogate biomarker for disease risk.
• The roles of related enzymes PON2 and PON3 require further investigation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To systematically review evidence on dietary supplements for modulating paraoxonase enzyme activity.
• To identify specific plant-based compounds that can increase PON1 levels.
• To explore the potential of these compounds in preventing chronic diseases.

Main Methods:

• Systematic literature review of studies on dietary supplements and PON1 activity.
• Analysis of plant preparations, focusing on pomegranate and Aronia melanocarpa.
• Identification of key active compounds, such as flavonoids (catechins, genistein).

Main Results:

• Several plant preparations positively influence PON1 activity, with pomegranate and Aronia melanocarpa being notable.
• Flavonoids, particularly catechins and genistein, are identified as promising agents for enhancing PON1.
• Nutrigenetic factors may influence individual responses to dietary supplements.

Conclusions:

• Dietary supplements, especially certain plant extracts, can increase PON1 activity.
• Optimizing dosage, bioavailability, and stability is crucial for therapeutic application.
• These compounds hold potential as nutraceuticals for preventing atherosclerosis and other chronic ailments.