A2 Refereed review article in a scientific journal

Anthocyanins as protectors of gut microbiota: mitigating the adverse effects of microplastic-induced disruption




AuthorsKoistinen, Ville M; Babu, Ambrin Farizah; Shad, Ehsan; Zarei, Iman

PublisherMaximum Academic Press

Publication year2025

Journal name in sourceFood Innovation and Advances

Volume4

Issue2

First page 238

Last page252

eISSN2836-774X

DOIhttps://doi.org/10.48130/fia-0025-0022

Web address https://doi.org/10.48130/fia-0025-0022

Self-archived copy’s web addresshttps://research.utu.fi/converis/portal/detail/Publication/499740954


Abstract
Anthocyanins, potent bioactive compounds found abundantly in berries, as well as in many other pigmented edible plants, have garnered significant attention for their health-promoting properties, particularly in relation to gut microbiota. This review focuses on the protective role of anthocyanins against gut microbiota disruption caused by microplastics, environmental pollutants that have triggered increased concerns in recent years for their impact on ecosystems and human health. By synthesizing current research, the mechanisms through which anthocyanins may exert their beneficial effects are explored, mitigating the negative health effects of microplastic ingestion. The paper also discusses the potential application of anthocyanin-rich functional foods and supplements as a strategy to preserve gut health in the face of rising environmental challenges.

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Funding information in the publication
This work was supported by the Ministry of Education and Culture, Finland through Seed Funding for the Finland-China Food and Health Network (FCFH) 2023, University of Eastern Finland. Koistinen VM was supported by the Lantmännen Research Foundation (Grant No. 2022H045). Babu AF received a working grant from the Finnish Cultural Foundation (Grant No. 00210224).


Last updated on 2025-05-09 at 09:24