Role of metabolism by the human intestinal microflora in arbutin-induced cytotoxicity in HepG2 cell cultures

► Metabolism by intestinal microflora in arbutin-induced toxicity was investigated. ► Intestinal microflora is capable of metabolizing arbutin to hydroquinone (HQ). ► HQ could decrease cell viability, produce ROS, and induce apoptosis. ► Intestinal microflora may be critical for activation of toxic metabolites.