Enhanced bioavailability of a krill oil-based milk thistle extract formulation: <i>in vitro</i> and human studies.

ABSTRACT:

Background/objectives

The milk thistle plant (Silybum marianum) is known for its hepatoprotective properties. However, the poor water solubility of silymarin limits its dissolution in the intestinal tract and restricts its bioavailability following oral administration.

Methods

To improve bioavailability, special formulations, in particular micellar solubilization, are explored. In this study, we examined the transport rate of silymarin in a krill oil-based formulation across a Caco-2 epithelial barrier after upstream digestion simulation in vitro. Furthermore, in a randomized cross-over design study the bioavailability of the krill oil-based formulation was investigated after single dose intake in fasting conditions in healthy participants.

Results

We co

SUBMITTER: Engelhart-Jentzsch K 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12829531 | biostudies-literature | 2026

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature