Anthocyanin-rich extract decreases indices of lipid peroxidation and DNA damage in vitamin E-depleted rats

Anthocyanins are secondary plant metabolites responsible for the blue, purp le, and red color of many plant tissues. The phenolic structure of anthocya nins conveys marked antioxidant activity in model systems via donation of e lectrons or hydrogen atoms from hydroxyl moieties to free radicals. Dietary intakes of anthocyanins may exceed 200 mg/day, however, little is known ab out their antioxidant potency in vivo. Consequently, the aim of this study was to establish whether anthocyanins could act as putative antioxidant mic ronutrients. Rats were maintained on vitamin E-deficient diets for 12 weeks in order to enhance susceptibility to oxidative damage and then repleted w ith rations containing a highly purified anthocyanin-rich extract at a conc entration of 1 g/kg diet. The extract consisted of the 3-glucopyranoside fo rms of delphinidin, cyanidin, petunidin. peonidin, and malvidin. Consumptio n of the anthocyanin-repleted diet significantly improved (p < .01) plasma antioxidant capacity and decreased p < .001) the vitamin E deficiency-enhan ced hydroperoxides and 8-Oxo-deoxyguanosine concentrations in liver. These compounds are indices of lipid peroxidation and DNA damage, respectively. D ietary consumption of anthocyanin-rich foods may contribute to overall anti oxidant status, particularly in areas of habitually low vitamin E intake. ( C) 2001 Elsevier Science Inc.