Longevity & AgingBilberry Anthocyanins Shield Gut Cell Mitochondria from Dietary Fat Damage
Researchers exposed Caco-2 intestinal cells to mixed micelles simulating dietary fat and tested whether bilberry anthocyanins or resveratrol could prevent mitochondrial damage. Mixed micelles significantly impaired mitochondrial membrane potential, respiratory function, and key gene expression. Bilberry anthocyanin-rich extract (ARBE) successfully protected mitochondrial function through a direct mechanism unrelated to mitochondrial biogenesis. Resveratrol, by contrast, boosted mitochondrial biogenesis pathways (PGC-1α, NRF-1, TFAM) and content but failed to shield against functional decline. Neither compound restored mtDNA-encoded mRNA expression. The findings suggest berry anthocyanins uniquely defend gut mitochondria against fat-induced stress, potentially supporting intestinal health and reducing disease risk.
