Compounds of flavonoids

Flavonoids are plant compounds that are found in almost all fruits and vegetables. Flavonoids are classified into subgroups based on their chemical structure: flavanones, flavones, flavonols, flavan-3-ols, anthocyanins and isoflavones. In plants, flavonoids have long been known to be synthesized in particular sites and are responsible for the color and aroma of flowers, and in fruits to attract pollinators and consequently fruit dispersion to help in seed and spore germination, and the growth and development of seedlings.

Flavonoids are the largest group of phytonutrients, with more than 6,000 types. Flavonoids have roles against frost hardiness, drought resistance and may play a functional role in plant heat acclimatisation and freezing tolerance.

In addition, they have antioxidant, antiviral and antibacterial properties. They also regulate gene expression and modulate enzymatic action.

Flavonols are flavonoids with a ketone group. They are building blocks of proanthocyanins. Flavonols occur abundantly in a variety of fruits and vegetables. The most studied flavonols are kaempferol, quercetin, myricetin and fisetin.

Flavonoids are now considered as an indispensable component in a variety of nutraceutical, pharmaceutical, medicinal and cosmetic applications. Research on flavonoids received an added impulse with the discovery of the low cardiovascular mortality rate and also prevention of coronary heart disease.
Compounds of flavonoids

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