Catechin Degradation with Concurrent Formation of Homo- and Heterocatechin Dimers during <i>in Vitro</i> Digestion

Abstract

Catechins were subjected to in vitro gastric and small intestinal digestion. EGCG, EGC, and ECG were significantly degraded at all concentrations tested, with losses of 71-91, 72-100, and 60-61%, respectively. EC and C were comparatively stable, with losses of 8-11 and 7-8%, respectively. HLPC-ESI-MS/MS indicated that EGCG degradation under simulated digestion resulted in production of theasinensins (THSNs) A and D (m/z 913) and P-2 (m/z 883), its autoxidation homodimers. EGC dimerization produced the homodimers THSN C and E (m/z 609) and homodimers analogous to P-2 (m/z 579). ECG homodimers were not observed. EGCG and EGC formed heterodimers analogous to the THSNs (m/z 761) and P-2 (m/z 731). EGCG and ECG formed homodimers analogous to the THSNs (m/z 897). This study provides an expanded profile of catechin dimers of digestive origin that may potentially form following consumption of catechins. These data provide a logical basis for initial screening to detect catechin digestive products in vivo.