Related Experiment Video
Updated: Sep 2, 2025

Structural Biology and Analytical Chemistry Approaches for Characterizing C-Glycoside Metabolic Enzymes in Human Gut Microbiota
Published on: May 23, 2025
Human colonic catabolism of dietary flavan-3-ol bioactives
Giuseppe Di Pede1, Pedro Mena2, Letizia Bresciani1
1Human Nutrition Unit, Department of Food and Drug, University of Parma, 43125, Parma, Italy.
Abstract:
Understanding the fate of ingested polyphenols is crucial in elucidating the molecular mechanisms underlying the beneficial effects of a fruit and vegetable-based diet. This review focuses on the colon microbiota-mediated transformation of the flavan-3-ols and the structurally related procyanidins found in dietary plant foods and beverages, plus the flavan-3-ol-derived theaflavins of black tea, and the post-absorption phase II metabolism of the gut microbiota catabolites. Despite significant advances in the last decade major analytical challenges remain. Strategies to address them are presented.
Related Concept Videos
Intestinal Phase of Digestion
The arrival of the chyme in the small intestine distends the duodenum, which triggers the enterogastric reflex. This distension...
Digestive Functions of the Large Intestine
As the chyme moves to the colon, it triggers two characteristic sluggish contractions - haustral churning and mass peristalsis. Haustral churning involves the rhythmic contraction and relaxation...
Bacterial Flora of the Large Intestine
The normal gut flora of the colon plays a critical role in generating essential vitamins such as vitamins K, B5, and B7.
Carbohydrate Catabolism
Bioavailability: Overview
Factors Influencing Bioavailability: First-Pass Elimination

