Anthocyanins as apoptotic regulators

Bioactive compounds have been used traditionally in different cultures to promote human health. Anthocyanins (ACNs) are one of the most abundant dietary bioactive compounds and are responsible for the bright red, blue and purple colors of fruits and vegetables. There are over 600 different types of ACNs in nature, featuring six common aglycone structures, with different side chains attached. Although ACN bioavailability is low, ACNs and their gut metabolites possess biological activities that positively impact a variety of chronic diseases including cancer. This book chapter provides a brief summary of the synthesis and the bioavailability of ACNs and discusses the molecular mechanisms involved in ACN-induced apoptosis in cell culture, animal models and human clinical studies. Furthermore, ACN metabolism in vivo is also discussed, as the evidence indicates that the ACN meta-bolites are important pro-apoptotic agents. We hope that the presented evidence will help influence future research in the direction of furthering the scientific understanding of ACN pro-apoptotic properties in cancer.