Brain Bioavailability Of Polyphenols: Implications For Delivery Of Brain Health Benefits

Chen, Tzu Ying. Ph.D., Purdue University, December 2013. Brain Bioavailability of Polyphenols: Implications for Delivery of Brain Health Benefits. Major Professor: Elsa M. Janle and Mario G. Ferruzzi. Consumption of fruits and vegetables has been associated with neuroprotection and cognitive benefits throughout the life span. These associations have sparked interest in plant derived polyphenols as biologically active agents with potential for targeting brain benefits. However, little is known regarding the ability of the polyphenols or their metabolites from polyphenol rich products to cross the blood brain barrier, and be available for biological action. Furthermore, additional insight is needed on factors affecting the absorption and brain distribution of polyphenol metabolites in vivo. To fill gap in current knowledge, this thesis will focus on the effects of diabetogenic diet and diabetic state which have been considered potential risk factors for neurodegenerative disease on polyphenol bioavailability from a ‘Standardized Grape Polyphenol’ (grape seed extract, Concord grape juice and resveratrol). Additionally, this thesis will provide novel evidence on plasma pharmacokinetics and regional brain distribution of polyphenol metabolites from apple/grape seed and bilberry extracts in a weaning piglet