Bio-Enhancers are defined as compounds, often non-nutritive, that are administered concurrently with a primary therapeutic agent or nutrient to significantly increase its bioavailability, absorption, or efficacy at the target tissue. Their clinical utility lies in improving the pharmacokinetic profile of other substances, allowing for lower effective dosages and potentially reducing systemic exposure or side effects. This strategy is a cornerstone of advanced nutraceutical and pharmaceutical formulation science, aiming for maximal therapeutic benefit.
Origin
The concept of bio-enhancement originates in traditional medicine and has been rigorously formalized in modern pharmacology and drug delivery systems. The term reflects the biological action of increasing the effectiveness or “Enhancement” of a compound within the living system.
Mechanism
The mechanism of action is varied but commonly involves modulating gut permeability, inhibiting efflux pumps like P-glycoprotein in the intestinal wall, or suppressing key metabolic enzymes, such as those in the cytochrome P450 (CYP) family, which are responsible for first-pass metabolism in the liver. For instance, piperine is a well-known bio-enhancer that inhibits certain glucuronidation pathways, thus prolonging the effective half-life of co-administered compounds and increasing their systemic concentration.
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