piperine n : derived from pepper (especially black pepper); source of the hotness of black and white pepper [syn: piperin]

Piperine is the alkaloid responsible for the pungency of black pepper along with chavicine (an isomer of piperine). It has also been used in some forms of traditional medicine and as an insecticide.

The pungency caused by capsaicin and piperine is caused by activation of the heat and acidity sensing TRPV ion channel TRPV1 on nociceptors (pain sensing nerve cells).

Piperine has also been found to inhibit human CYP3A4 and P-glycoprotein, enzymes important for the metabolism and transport of xenobiotics and metabolites. In animal studies, piperine also inhibited other enzymes important in drug metabolism. By inhibiting drug metabolism, piperine may increase the bioavailability of various compounds. Notably, piperine may enhance bioavailability of curcumin by 2000% in humans.

In February 2008 researchers discovered that piperine can stimulate pigmentation in the skin.

The study, by King's College London, appears in the British Journal of Dermatology.

Due to its effects on drug metabolism, piperine should be taken cautiously (if at all) by individuals taking other medications.

Piperine was first discovered by Hans Christian Ørsted in 1819.

See also

• Piperidine, a cyclic six-membered amine that results from hydrolysis of piperine
• Capsaicin, the active piquant chemical in chile peppers
• Allyl isothiocyanate, the active piquant chemical in mustard, radishes, horseradish and wasabi
• Allicin, the active piquant flavor chemical in uncooked garlic and onions (see those articles for discussion of other chemicals in them relating to pungency, and eye irritation)

References

External links

• PDRhealth.com - Piperine
• MSDS for piperine
• http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/health/7244474.stmPepper 'to treat pigment disease'