Pharmacokinetic Characterization of Tartaric Acid in Humans

Overview

The goal of this clinical trial is to characterize the pharmacokinetics (absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion; ADME) and oral bioavailability of tartaric acid in humans after its administration through different food matrices (red wine, fresh grapes, and grape juice). The study aims to determine whether the pharmacokinetic behavior of tartaric acid is matrix-dependent and dose-dependent in healthy adult volunteers. The main questions it aims to answer are: Does the food matrix (wine, grapes, or grape juice) influence the oral bioavailability of tartaric acid? Are there differences in key pharmacokinetic parameters of tartaric acid, including maximum plasma concentration (Cmax), time to reach maximum concentration (Tmax), total exposure (AUC), half-life (t1/2), and urinary excretion, depending on the matrix of intake? Researchers will compare the pharmacokinetic profiles of tartaric acid after consumption in red wine, grapes, and grape juice to evaluate differences in absorption, systemic exposure, and elimination attributable to the source of intake. Participants will: Follow a polyphenol-restricted diet prior to the study, including avoidance of grapes, wine, and related products. Consume a single standardized dose of tartaric acid administered as red wine, fresh grapes, or grape juice after an overnight fast. Provide blood samples at multiple time points over a 24-hour period to determine plasma tartaric acid concentrations. Collect urine samples over 24 hours for assessment of tartaric acid excretion. Consume standardized low-polyphenol meals under controlled conditions during the study day.

This study will characterize the pharmacokinetics (absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion) and oral bioavailability of tartaric acid (TA) in humans after consumption in different food matrices: red wine, fresh grapes, and grape juice. Although moderate wine consumption has been associated with cardiometabolic benefits, the human pharmacokinetics of TA-the main organic acid in grapes and wine-remain largely uncharacterized. Existing data from animal studies do not account for the influence of the food matrix on absorption or systemic exposure. TA has been proposed as an objective biomarker of wine intake, and its dietary presence may contribute to observed cardiovascular and anti-inflammatory effects. Bioavailability of bioactive compounds is strongly matrix-dependent, and interactions within complex foods can enhance or limit absorption. This study provides the first direct evaluation of whether TA pharmacokinetics differ depending on the food matrix. Using a randomized, parallel-group design, participants will receive a standardized dose of TA in one of the three matrices, with plasma and urine samples analyzed by advanced LC-MS/MS methods. Results will establish reference pharmacokinetic parameters, clarify the effect of the food matrix on TA bioavailability, and support development of functional grape-derived products, while improving interpretation of epidemiological evidence linking TA to cardiometabolic health.