Biotrasformation of piceid to resveratrol by a beta-glucosidase from Rhodotorula spp.

Resveratrol (3,4?,5-trihydroxystilbene) is a phenolic compound produced by many spermatophytes, including grapevines. Resveratrol possesses a wide range of pharmacological properties that may account for its possible cardioprotective action, including the inhibition of low-density lipoprotein oxidation, inhibition of smooth muscle cell proliferation, and platelet aggregation. In this work we describe a new biotransformation process of piceid in resveratrol operate with a ?-glucosidase from a Rhodotorula spp. isolated by a screening of yeasts from the grapes and must of Irpinian typical grapevine "Aglianico".