Nanotechnology-based formulations for resveratrol delivery: Effects on resveratrol in vivo bioavailability and bioactivity

Abstract

Resveratrol (RES), also known as 3,5,4′-trihydroxystilbene, is a polyphenolic phytoalexin that has been widely researched in the past decade due to its recognized numerous biological activities. Despite the potential benefits of RES, its effective use is limited due to its poor solubility, photosensitivity and rapid metabolism, which strongly undermine RES bioavailability and bioactivity. Thereby, recently, nanotechnology appeared as a po- tential strategy to circumvent RES physicochemical and pharmacokinetics constrains. However, only few studies have addressed the crucial in vivo suitability of the developed delivery systems to improve RES efficacy. Facing this scenario, in the present review, it is intended to present and discuss the in vivo resveratrol bioavailability and bioactivity, following its encapsulation or conjugation in nanotechnology-based carriers, contemplating their pharmacokinetics effectiveness.