The primary active compound in Bioperine, derived from black pepper (Piper nigrum).How does it work?

Enhancement of Nutrient Absorption: Piperine inhibits various enzymes involved in drug metabolism, such as cytochrome P450 (CYP) isoenzymes, and modulates P-glycoprotein (P-gp) activity in the intestine. Specifically, piperine downregulates the expression of CYP3A4 and CYP2D6 enzymes, and inhibits P-gp, a transmembrane transporter protein that pumps foreign substances out of cells. By inhibiting these enzymes, piperine reduces the metabolism and efflux of various nutrients and drugs, leading to increased bioavailability. This results in higher plasma concentrations of the co-administered substances, including vitamins, minerals, and various phytochemicals, which can enhance their therapeutic efficacy.

Thermogenesis:Piperine stimulates the release of catecholamines such as epinephrine and norepinephrine from the adrenal glands. These catecholamines activate β-adrenergic receptors, leading to increased cyclic AMP (cAMP) levels in adipose tissues, which in turn stimulates lipolysis and thermogenesis. Enhanced thermogenesis increases energy expenditure and metabolic rate, promoting weight loss and improving metabolic health.

Antioxidant Activity: Piperine scavenges reactive oxygen species (ROS)  as superoxide anions, hydroxyl radicals, and singlet oxygen. It also enhances the activity of antioxidant enzymes like superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), and glutathione peroxidase (GPx), and inhibits lipid peroxidation by maintaining the integrity of cellular membranes.

Piperine inhibits the activation of nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB), a key transcription factor that regulates the expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines such as TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6. Piperine also downregulates the expression of cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) and inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS), enzymes involved in the inflammatory response. By reducing inflammation, piperine helps in managing inflammatory conditions and may contribute to the prevention of inflammation-related chronic diseases, joint inflammation, cardiovascular inflammation and neurodegenereration.