The Daily Molecule

Resveratrol is a phytoalexin produced naturally by several plants when under attack by pathogens such as bacteria or fungi. Resveratrol has also been produced by chemical synthesis, and is sold as a nutritional supplement derived primarily from Japanese knotweed. Studies in vitro and in animals have suggest a number of potential therapeutic properties, including anti-cancer, antiviral, neuroprotective, anti-aging, and anti-inflammatory. Resveratrol is found in the skin of red grapes and is a constituent of red wine but, based on extrapolation from animal trials, apparently not in sufficient amounts to explain the "French paradox" that the incidence of coronary heart disease is relatively low in southern France despite high dietary intake of saturated fats.

References

• Nature Rev. Drug Disc. - Therapeutic potential of resveratrol: the in vivo evidence

• Am. J. Enol. Vitic. - Resveratrol Concentration in Muscadine Berries, Juice, Pomace, Purees, Seeds, and Wines

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