Factors Explaining Interpersonal Variation in Plasma Enterolactone Concentrations in Humans

Area of Science:

• Nutritional Biochemistry
• Microbiome Research
• Cancer Epidemiology

Background:

• Lignans are plant compounds metabolized by gut microbiota into enterolignans, such as enterolactone (ENL).
• Epidemiological studies suggest associations between high lignan intake, circulating ENL, and reduced risks of certain cancers and cardiovascular disease.
• Inconsistent findings in studies may stem from variations in ENL formation and individual responses.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review and assess factors contributing to variability in plasma enterolactone (ENL) concentrations.
• To identify key determinants influencing inter-individual differences in ENL levels.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of studies investigating factors affecting plasma ENL concentrations.
• Analysis of epidemiological and biochemical data related to lignan metabolism and enterolignan levels.

Main Results:

• Plasma ENL concentrations are influenced by lignan intake, gut microbiota composition and activity, antibiotic use, nutrient intake, BMI, smoking, sex, and age.
• Gut microbiota composition and activity are identified as the most critical factors for interpersonal variability in plasma ENL.
• Antibiotic use is another significant factor affecting ENL levels.

Conclusions:

• Interpersonal variability in plasma ENL is primarily driven by gut microbiota and influenced by factors like diet and lifestyle.
• Further research integrating gut microbiota, metabolomics, dietary, and lifestyle data is needed to quantify the contribution of these factors to ENL levels.