Differences in the Glucuronidation of Resveratrol and Pterostilbene: Altered Enzyme Specificity and Potential Gender Differences

This was a laboratory study, not a trial in people. Researchers exposed resveratrol and pterostilbene to human liver and intestinal microsomes, small collections of working enzymes from donated tissues, and to individual UGT enzymes, proteins that attach a sugar-like tag to substances so the body can remove them. Resveratrol was changed into two main glucuronides, while pterostilbene mainly formed one. Different UGT enzymes preferred the two compounds, and liver samples from men and women showed some possible differences.

What this means for you: This does not show that pterostilbene is healthier or works better than resveratrol in people. It is not a strong reason to buy either supplement based on how the body processes them.