The effects of catechins on the cardiac mitochondria

Catechins are polyphenolic compounds belonging to the flavanol subfamily of flavonoids. The most abundant dietary sources of catechins are green tea, cocoa products, and wine. Catechins have been shown to possess beneficial effects in many pathological conditions including cardiovascular diseases which are currently one of the main causes of mortality in the world. Catechins are potent antioxidants, although under pathological conditions they act as prooxidants, modulating signal transduction, inflammation, and cell death regulation pathways. Furthermore, catechins may regulate metabolic processes via direct effects on mitochondria, which are responsible for energy supply in the cells. This chapter reviews the bioavailability of catechins, their cardioprotective activity, and their effects on the functions of cardiac mitochondria.