Demonstrating the involvement of an active efflux mechanism in the intestinal absorption of chlorogenic acid and quinic acid using a Caco-2 bidirectional permeability assay.

Scope: Chlorogenic acid (5-caffeoylquinic acid), the most prominent polyphenolic compound in coffee, has been attributed multiple health-promoting effects such as anti-inflammatory, antidiabetic and antioxidative effects. These effects are dependent on the bioavailability of chlorogenic acid, which is determined by the pharmacokinetic properties: absorption, distribution, metabolism and excretion (ADME). In order to have a better understanding of the biological properties of chlorogenic acid and to optimize formulation and dosing of chlorogenic acid-containing food supplements, information on the absorption of chlorogenic acid and its microbial biotransformation products is of essence.

Methods And Results: In the present work, the intestinal absorption of chlorogenic acid and quinic acid, one of its most prominent intestinal biotransformation products, was studied by an in vitro permeability assay using a human Caco-2 cell line model. For both chlorogenic acid and quinic acid, the involvement of an active efflux mechanism was demonstrated, suggesting an overall low intestinal absorption.

Conclusions: An overall low intestinal absorption for chlorogenic acid and quinic acid was reported given the involvement of an active efflux mechanism. These findings could aid in the development of optimal formulation and dosing strategies of chlorogenic acid in food supplements in order to obtain beneficial health effects.