Bioaktiven

Bioaktiven, or bioactive substances, are compounds that have a physiological effect on living organisms beyond those required for basic nutrition. They can be natural or synthetic and occur in foods, dietary supplements, medicines, cosmetics, and environmental matrices. Bioactive compounds influence processes such as metabolism, cell signaling, gene expression, immune response, and oxidative balance.

Common sources include plants, fungi, algae, and some microorganisms. Examples are polyphenols (such as resveratrol, quercetin, and catechins), carotenoids (like lycopene and beta-carotene), glucosinolates, omega-3 fatty acids, alkaloids, terpenoids, and bioactive peptides. In foods, these substances may contribute to taste, colour, or aroma and are often studied for potential health benefits, including anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects.

Mechanistically, bioactive compounds can act by binding to receptors or enzymes, modulating signaling pathways, influencing gene expression, or altering enzymatic activity. Their effects depend on bioavailability, metabolism, and interaction with gut microbiota, which can activate or degrade certain substances. Assessing bioactivity involves in vitro assays and in vivo studies, with consideration given to dose, timing, and biological context.

Applications range from functional foods and nutraceuticals to cosmetics and pharmaceuticals. Regulatory status varies by jurisdiction, with safety and efficacy evidence required for marketing claims. Challenges include variability in content, bioavailability, interactions with medications, and balancing potential benefits with possible risks.