Role of polyphenols and polyphenol-rich foods in the modulation of PON1 activity and expression

Paraoxonase 1 (PON1) is a high-density lipoprotein (HDL)-associated enzyme involved in the protection of low-density lipoprotein and HDLs against lipid peroxidation. Several studies documented the capacity of polyphenols to stimulate PON1 transcription activation. The objective of the present review is to provide the main evidence about the role and the potential mechanism of action of polyphenols and polyphenol-rich foods in the modulation of PON1 gene expression and activity. A total of 76 in vitro and in vivo studies were included in the review. Overall, while evidence obtained in vitro is limited to quercetin and resveratrol, those deriving from animal models seem more convincing for a wide range of polyphenols but only at pharmacological doses. Evidence from human studies is promising but deserves more substantiation about the role of polyphenol-rich foods in the regulation of PON1 activity and expression. Research focused on the understanding of the structure-activity relationship of polyphenols with PON1 and on the mechanisms at the base of PON1 modulation is warranted. Well-designed human intervention studies are encouraged to corroborate the findings of polyphenols also at physiological doses.