Anthocyanins Absorption and Metabolism

All anthocyanins are made up of a single aromatic structure, i.e. cyanidin. The biochemistry, kinetics and pharmacological as well as physiological actions of anthocyanins have been studied in detail during last 15 years. Although discovered in 1835, kinetic studies of anthocyanins in humans have been reported only recently. Kinetic studies provide detailed physiological information on utilization of these biomolecules in human body and facilitate understanding of their dynamics in human health. It is interesting to notice the diverse biological effects of consumption of anthocyanins in humans despite their less bioavailability. This chapter reviews the recent progress and developments on kinetic studies of anthocyanins. These studies provide detailed information on utilization of anthocyanins thereby facilitating our understanding the destiny of these nutrients in our body. Stepwise and organ specific metabolic effects on anthocyanins have been described. Keywords Anthocyanins Metabolism Kinetics Liver Pathway