Evaluation of the distribution and metabolism of polyphenols derived from cupuassu (Theobroma grandiflorum) in mice gastrointestinal tract by UPLC-ESI-QTOF

The fate and metabolism of epicatechin-derived proanthocyanidins and glucuronide and sulphate conjugates of the unusual 8-hydroxyflavones hypolaetin, isoscutellarein and hypolaetin methyl ether from cupuassu in the gastrointestinal tract of mice were evaluated. Fasted mice C57BL/6 (N = 27) were administered by gavage a cupuassu phenolic extract. Tissues (stomach, small intestine, caecum, colon) and faeces were collected at different times after dosing and then were analysed by UPLC-ESI-QTOF. Parent compounds were found mainly in the stomach and small intestine, and lesser amounts were present in the caecum and colon because of their transformation to microbial metabolites. Aglycones from flavone conjugates and diarylpropan-2-ol and phenyl valerolactone metabolites from epicatechin were detected in the caecum, colon and faeces. No further metabolism to smaller phenolic acids was observed. This metabolic profile could result from the gut microbiota modulation by this unique mixture of cupuassu flavonoids. Parent compounds and metabolites could exert local effect contributing to the host health.