Resveratrol
Resveratrol ist eine natürlich vorkommende polyphenolische Verbindung (engl. polyphenolic compound), die in der wissenschaftlichen Gemeinschaft aufgrund ihrer potenziellen Rolle bei der Förderung der menschlichen Langlebigkeit und Gesundheitsspanne erhebliche Aufmerksamkeit erregt hat. Diese Verbindung findet sich in verschiedenen Pflanzen, wo sie als Schutzmechanismus gegen Stressfaktoren wie Infektionen oder ultraviolette Strahlung fungiert. Aus diesem Grund wird sie als eine xenohormetische Verbindung (engl. xenohormetic compound) angesehen.
Resveratrol ist eine Art natürliches Phenol und ein Phytoalexin, das von mehreren Pflanzen als Reaktion auf Verletzungen oder wenn die Pflanze von Pathogenen wie Bakterien oder Pilzen angegriffen wird, produziert wird. Seine molekulare Formel ist C₁₄H₁₂O₃, und es gehört zu einer Klasse von Verbindungen, die als Stilbene (engl. stilbenes) bekannt sind.
Das Potenzial von Resveratrol, die Langlebigkeit zu beeinflussen, ergibt sich aus seiner Fähigkeit, mehrere biologische Pfade zu modulieren, die im Alterungsprozess eine Rolle spielen. Es ist bekannt für seine antioxidativen (engl. antioxidant) und entzündungshemmenden Eigenschaften, die die schädlichen Effekte von oxidativem Stress (engl. oxidative stress) und Entzündungen, zwei Schlüsselfaktoren für Alterung und altersbedingte Krankheiten, mildern können. Zusätzlich ist bekannt, dass Resveratrol Sirtuine (engl. sirtuins), eine Familie von Proteinen, aktiviert, die eine entscheidende Rolle für die zelluläre Gesundheit und Langlebigkeit spielen.
Historischer Kontext
Resveratrol wurde erstmals 1939 von Michio Takaoka aus den Wurzeln des weißen Nieswurzes (Veratrum grandiflorum) identifiziert. Es erlangte jedoch in den 1990er Jahren erhebliche Aufmerksamkeit, als seine Präsenz in Rotwein entdeckt wurde, was eine mögliche Erklärung für das Französische Paradoxon darstellte – die Beobachtung, dass die französische Bevölkerung trotz einer Ernährung, die reich an gesättigten Fetten ist, eine relativ niedrige Inzidenz von Koronarherzkrankheiten aufweist.
Die frühen Studien konzentrierten sich hauptsächlich auf die antioxidativen (engl. antioxidant) Eigenschaften von Resveratrol. Forscher fanden heraus, dass es die Fähigkeit besitzt, freie Radikale zu neutralisieren und oxidativen Stress zu reduzieren, welche Schlüsselfaktoren für Alterung und altersbedingte Krankheiten sind. Diese anfänglichen Erkenntnisse weckten Interesse an Resveratrol als einem potenziellen Anti-Aging-Wirkstoff.
Im Laufe der Jahre hat sich die Forschung zu Resveratrol erweitert, um seinen Einfluss auf eine Vielzahl biologischer Prozesse im Zusammenhang mit dem Altern zu erforschen. Studien haben seine Rolle bei der Reduktion von Entzündungen, der Aktivierung von Sirtuinen und sein Potenzial untersucht, die Effekte der Kalorienrestriktion (engl. caloric restriction) zu imitieren – eine der wenigen wissenschaftlich unterstützten Interventionen, von denen bekannt ist, dass sie die Lebensdauer in verschiedenen Organismen verlängern. Das Forschungsgebiet hat sich erweitert und umfasst nun auch klinische Studien, die darauf abzielen, die Auswirkungen von Resveratrol auf die menschliche Gesundheit und Langlebigkeit zu verstehen.
Natürliche Quellen
Resveratrol findet sich hauptsächlich in der Haut von Trauben und in Rotwein, ist aber auch in anderen Früchten, Gemüsen und Pflanzen vorhanden. Hier sind einige der natürlichen Quellen von Resveratrol:
Trauben und Wein
- Rote Trauben: Die Haut roter Trauben ist eine der reichsten Quellen für Resveratrol.
- Rotwein: Hergestellt aus roten Trauben, ist Rotwein eine beliebte Quelle für Resveratrol, wobei die Gehalte je nach Weintyp und Anbaugebiet der Trauben variieren.
Beeren
- Blaubeeren: Enthalten moderate Mengen an Resveratrol.
- Cranberries: Eine weitere Beere, die eine Quelle von Resveratrol ist.
- Maulbeeren: Diese Beeren sind ebenfalls bekannt dafür, Resveratrol zu enthalten.
Erdnüsse
- Rohe Erdnüsse: Erdnüsse, insbesondere die Schalen, enthalten Resveratrol.
- Erdnussbutter: Eine Quelle von Resveratrol, allerdings sind die Gehalte im Vergleich zu rohen Erdnüssen niedriger.
Biologische Mechanismen
Resveratrol ist bekannt für seine vielfältigen biologischen Mechanismen, die zu seinen potenziellen langlebigkeitsfördernden Eigenschaften beitragen können. Dieser Abschnitt erforscht die komplexen biologischen Pfade und Prozesse, die von Resveratrol beeinflusst werden.
Antioxidative Eigenschaften
Resveratrol zeigt starke antioxidative (engl. antioxidant) Eigenschaften, die eine entscheidende Rolle im Kampf gegen oxidativen Stress (engl. oxidative stress), einen Schlüsselfaktor für Alterung und altersbedingte Krankheiten, spielen. Es neutralisiert freie Radikale und reduziert oxidativen Schaden an Zellen, was potenziell die zelluläre Gesundheit und Vitalität verlängern kann.
Entzündungshemmende Effekte
Sirtuin-Aktivierung und -Regulation
Auswirkungen auf Telomere
Additional Mechanisms
In addition to the mechanisms listed above, resveratrol has also been shown to:
- Activate AMPK, a protein kinase that plays a central role in regulating cellular metabolism and energy homeostasis. AMPK activation is associated with a variety of health benefits, including reduced inflammation, improved insulin sensitivity, and increased stress resistance.
- Induce autophagy, a cellular process that removes damaged or dysfunctional components. Autophagy is essential for maintaining cellular health and function, and it is thought to play a role in preventing age-related diseases.
- Modulate the expression of a variety of genes, including genes involved in cell survival, apoptosis, and senescence. By altering gene expression, resveratrol can influence the aging process at a fundamental level.
Overall, the research on the biological mechanisms of resveratrol is still in its early stages, but it is clear that this compound has a wide range of effects on cellular processes that are relevant to aging. Further research is needed to fully understand how resveratrol can be leveraged to promote longevity and improve healthspan.
Resveratrol and Aging
Resveratrol has garnered significant attention in the scientific community for its potential role in promoting health and longevity. This section delves into the intricate relationship between resveratrol and aging, exploring its effects on lifespan and age-related diseases. [1]
Effects on Lifespan

Resveratrol is believed to extend lifespan through its interaction with certain proteins and genes associated with aging. Studies in various organisms, including yeast, worms, flies, and mice, have shown promising results, indicating an increase in lifespan with resveratrol supplementation.
In [2] mice fed a standard diet, high-calorie diet or high-calorie diet plus resveratrol. The study found that resveratrol helps mice on a high-calorie diet have similar health benefits to mice on a regular diet. This includes better lifespan, movement, insulin response, organ health, and improved mitochondrial function. Importantly, these benefits happened without the mice losing weight.
Impact on Age-Related Diseases
Resveratrol’s potential in mitigating the risk of several age-related diseases is under extensive research. It has shown promise in the prevention and management of diseases such as:
- Cardiovascular Diseases: Resveratrol helps in improving heart health by reducing inflammation and oxidative stress.
- Neurodegenerative Diseases: It has potential neuroprotective effects, which can be beneficial in conditions like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease.
- Cancer: Resveratrol may inhibit the growth of cancer cells and induce apoptosis, showing potential as an anti-cancer agent.
Cellular Senescence and Apoptosis
Resveratrol is studied for its role in reducing cellular senescence and promoting apoptosis, which are crucial processes related to aging and disease. It modulates various signaling pathways, influencing cell cycle, inflammation, and survival.
Caloric Restriction Mimetic
One of the mechanisms by which resveratrol is thought to impact aging is by mimicking the effects of caloric restriction, a well-known intervention for extending lifespan. It activates sirtuins (in particularly SIRT1), proteins associated with longevity, and influences metabolic processes related to aging.
A recent study [3] in a randomized trial involving adults aged 55 to 65 compared the effects of resveratrol supplementation to a caloric-restricted diet. Both interventions raised circulating SIRT1 levels and reduced plasma noradrenaline, suggesting cardiovascular benefits. However, the study found differences between the groups in vascular reactions. Specifically, improvements in nitrate-mediated vasodilation (NMD) were seen only with caloric restriction, not with resveratrol. Additionally, SIRT1 was linked to enhanced flow-mediated vasodilation (FMD) in men but not in women. This suggests that while resveratrol mirrors some benefits of caloric restriction, it doesn't capture all, especially regarding vascular effects.
Forms of Resveratrol
Resveratrol exists in two geometric isomers: cis-resveratrol and trans-resveratrol.
- Trans-resveratrol is the most abundant and biologically active form of resveratrol in plants. It is the form that has been most studied in scientific research and is thought to be responsible for the majority of the health benefits associated with resveratrol.
- Cis-resveratrol is less abundant in nature and less biologically active than trans-resveratrol. However, it has still been shown to have some health benefits, such as antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects.
In addition to cis- and trans-resveratrol, there are also a number of other forms of resveratrol, including:
- Piceatannol: Piceatannol is a metabolite of resveratrol that is found in red grape skins and Japanese knotweed. It has been shown to have some similar health benefits to trans-resveratrol, such as antioxidant and anti-cancer effects.
- Resveratrol glucosides: Resveratrol glucosides are conjugated forms of resveratrol that are linked to glucose molecules. These forms of resveratrol are less bioavailable than trans-resveratrol, but they may be more stable and easier to store.
- Resveratrol dimers and oligomers: Resveratrol dimers and oligomers are formed when two or more molecules of resveratrol link together. These forms of resveratrol have been shown to have some unique biological activities, such as anti-cancer and anti-inflammatory effects.
The most common form of resveratrol available as a supplement is trans-resveratrol. Trans-resveratrol supplements are typically made from grape seed extract or Japanese knotweed extract.
Formulations and Bioavailability
Trans-Resveratrol
Trans-resveratrol unfortunately suffers from poor bioavailability and water solubility. Its solubility in water is less than 0.05 mg/ml. Studies have indicated varying plasma concentrations after repeated doses of resveratrol:
After consumption, 77-80% of resveratrol gets absorbed into the bloodstream through active transport via the intestinal epithelial cells. Once in the bloodstream, it associates with albumin and lipoproteins. Despite its efficient absorption, resveratrol possesses a short half-life of around 1.5 hours. This is attributed to its rapid absorption in the intestine and subsequent degradation in the liver. A significant amount of ingested resveratrol, approximately 49–61%, is eventually excreted through urine. [5]
Several factors lead to differences in how individuals respond to resveratrol intake: [4]
- Gut Microbiota Composition: The unique blend of microorganisms in one's gut.
- Genetic Differences: Variations in genes that affect metabolism enzymes (like UGTs and SULTs) and transporters.
- Ethnicity & Geography: People from different ethnic backgrounds or geographical locations may metabolize resveratrol differently.
- Lifestyle & Diet: Personal habits and food choices can influence resveratrol processing.
- Natural Variation: Humans naturally vary, leading to different responses to resveratrol .
Resveratrol with Piperine
In 2021 Randomized Controlled Trial, participants receive a single dose of resveratrol 2500 mg, with piperine in 0 mg, 5 mg or 25 mg dose. Despite the observation of piperine coadministration significantly increasing bioavailability (Cmax and AUC) of resveratrol in C57BL mice, no significant increase in resveratrol or decrease in resveratrol glucuronide could be observed in healthy adults taking 2500 gm of resveratrol with piperine (5 or 25 mg) as compared to resveratrol alone. [6]
Micronized Resveratrol
Micronized resveratrol is a form of resveratrol that has been ground into very small particles. This makes it easier for the body to absorb and use the resveratrol.
There is some evidence to suggest that micronized resveratrol may have higher bioavailability than other forms of resveratrol. For example, one study found that micronized resveratrol was absorbed twice as well as standard resveratrol powder.
However, more research is needed to confirm the bioavailability of micronized resveratrol and to determine whether it is more effective than other forms of resveratrol.
Liposomal Resveratrol
There are a number of liposomal resveratrol supplements on the market that claim to have higher bioavailability than other forms of resveratrol. However, there is no clinical trial evidence to support this claim.
Dosage and Administration
Recommended Dosage
The recommended dosage for adults is generally between 150 to 500 mg per day, although this can vary based on individual health conditions and specific product formulations. In a study [7], participants received resveratrol for 29 days at doses of up to 5.0g per day.
Dr. David Sinclair takes 500 mg resveratrol in the morning.
Forms of Administration
- Oral (Capsule or Tablet): Resveratrol is most commonly available in capsule or tablet form, taken orally with water. Resveratrol is best taken with a meal.
- Oral (Pulver): The molecule resveratrol is in fact a fat-soluble molecule. Therefore, it is recommended taking it together with a spoonful of vegetable oil (olive, flax or pumpkin seed oil - depending on your preference) or mixed in a yogurt.
- Liquid Form: Some people prefer liquid resveratrol, which can be mixed with water or another beverage.
According to studies, the bioavailability of resveratrol is significantly better in the morning.
Resveratrol should not be taken with high-fat meals. In a study [8], a high-fat breakfast significantly decreased the bioavailability by 45% when compared with a standard breakfast.
Combined intake with quercetin or alcohol does not influence trans-resveratrol exposure. [8]
Safety
Resveratrol is generally considered safe when taken in recommended amounts, but excessive consumption can lead to side effects. In a study, it was found to be safe as no severe adverse reactions were observed based on clinical, biochemical, or hematological analyses.
Side Effects
Some people may experience gastrointestinal issues, headaches, or a feeling of jitteriness. In the mentioned study [7], the majority of adverse events in the higher doses (2.5g and 5.0g) were gastrointestinal symptoms, including nausea, flatulence, abdominal discomfort, and diarrhea. Symptoms typically began 2-4 days into the regimen and improved as the day progressed but would return after the next dose. They resolved within 2 days of completing the 29-day regimen.
See Also
- Wikipedia - Resveratrol
- Caloric Restriction
Further Reading
- 2021, Effects and Mechanisms of Resveratrol on Aging and Age-Related Diseases [1]
ToDo
References
- ↑ Jump up to: 1.0 1.1 Zhou DD et al.: Effects and Mechanisms of Resveratrol on Aging and Age-Related Diseases. Oxid Med Cell Longev 2021. (PMID 34336123) [PubMed] [DOI] [Full text] Abstract
- ↑ Jump up to: 2.0 2.1 Baur JA et al.: Resveratrol improves health and survival of mice on a high-calorie diet. Nature 2006. (PMID 17086191) [PubMed] [DOI] [Full text] Abstract
- ↑ Gonçalinho GHF et al.: Sirtuin 1 and Vascular Function in Healthy Women and Men: A Randomized Clinical Trial Comparing the Effects of Energy Restriction and Resveratrol. Nutrients 2023. (PMID 37447275) [PubMed] [DOI] [Full text] Abstract
- ↑ Jump up to: 4.0 4.1 Springer M & Moco S: Resveratrol and Its Human Metabolites-Effects on Metabolic Health and Obesity. Nutrients 2019. (PMID 30641865) [PubMed] [DOI] [Full text] Abstract
- ↑ Galiniak S et al.: Health benefits of resveratrol administration. Acta Biochim Pol 2019. (PMID 30816367) [PubMed] [DOI] Abstract
- ↑ Bailey HH et al.: A randomized, double-blind, dose-ranging, pilot trial of piperine with resveratrol on the effects on serum levels of resveratrol. Eur J Cancer Prev 2021. (PMID 32868637) [PubMed] [DOI] [Full text] Abstract
- ↑ Jump up to: 7.0 7.1 Brown VA et al.: Repeat dose study of the cancer chemopreventive agent resveratrol in healthy volunteers: safety, pharmacokinetics, and effect on the insulin-like growth factor axis. Cancer Res 2010. (PMID 20935227) [PubMed] [DOI] [Full text] Abstract
- ↑ Jump up to: 8.0 8.1 la Porte C et al.: Steady-State pharmacokinetics and tolerability of trans-resveratrol 2000 mg twice daily with food, quercetin and alcohol (ethanol) in healthy human subjects. Clin Pharmacokinet 2010. (PMID 20528005) [PubMed] [DOI] Abstract
- ↑ Amiot MJ et al.: Optimization of trans-Resveratrol bioavailability for human therapy. Biochimie 2013. (PMID 23376875) [PubMed] [DOI] Abstract
- ↑ Joseph A et al.: Micelle/Hydrogel Composite as a "Natural Self-Emulsifying Reversible Hybrid Hydrogel (N'SERH)" Enhances the Oral Bioavailability of Free (Unconjugated) Resveratrol. ACS Omega 2022. (PMID 35474815) [PubMed] [DOI] [Full text] Abstract