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Metabolism and biological activity of components of fruit and vegetables
Project
Project code: MRI-OG-08-54401Metabolomics2
Contract period: 01.01.2001
- 31.12.2017
Purpose of research: Basic research
The metabolism of phytochemicals by endogenous enzyme systems and by the human gut microbiota significantly impacts the physiological effects of fruit and vegetables and products thereof. Research activities focus on biologically active secondary plant compounds, e.g. isoflavones, diferulic acids, polymethoxylated flavonoids and stilbenes (resveratrol and its oligomers). Their phase I and phase II metabolism, bioavailability and tissue distribution are investigated in different species. In addition, the microbial transformation of selected compounds of fruit and vegetables is being investigated and the metabolites formed are being identified. Chromatographic systems with highly efficient detectors are used to address the above mentioned research questions. Liquid chromatographic analysis methods partially coupled with highly selective mass spectrometry (QTrap and QTof) as well as one- and two dimensional gas chromatographic measuring systems (e.g., GC-MS, GCxGC-MS, GC-FID) are being utilized. The microbial metabolism of phytochemicals is investigated in vitro by using anaerobic fecal cultures (anaerobic bench and Hungate technique). Following identification of the metabolites, their biological activity is being investigated in vitro (enzyme assays, cell culture). The knowledge gained serves as a basis for an evaluation of the biological activity of those compounds in humans.
Section overview
Subjects
- Physiology of Nutrition
- Food Chemistry
- Biotechnology
Framework programme
Funding programme
Excutive institution
MRI - Department of Safety and Quality of Fruit and Vegetables (MRI-OG)
