Digalloyl glucose

Digalloyl glucose is a type of polyphenol that is found in various plants and fruits. It is a type of tannin, which are a class of astringent, polyphenolic biomolecules that bind to and precipitate proteins and various other organic compounds including amino acids and alkaloids.

Structure and Properties

Digalloyl glucose is a glucose molecule that has been esterified with two gallic acid molecules. This gives it a unique structure and set of properties. It is a type of hydrolysable tannin, which means it can be broken down into its constituent parts by hydrolysis.

The structure of digalloyl glucose includes a central glucose molecule, with two gallic acid molecules attached. This gives it a high degree of polarity, which allows it to interact with a wide range of other molecules.

Biological Role and Effects

In plants, digalloyl glucose serves a number of roles. It is involved in plant defense mechanisms, helping to deter herbivores and protect against microbial infections. It also plays a role in plant growth and development.

In humans, digalloyl glucose has been studied for its potential health benefits. It has been found to have antioxidant properties, and may also have anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer effects. However, more research is needed to fully understand these potential benefits and how they might be harnessed for therapeutic purposes.

Sources and Uses

Digalloyl glucose can be found in a variety of plants and fruits, including oak bark, pomegranate peel, and tea leaves. It can be extracted from these sources for use in various applications.

In addition to its potential health benefits, digalloyl glucose is also used in the production of leather and ink. Its ability to bind to proteins makes it useful in the tanning process, while its high polarity makes it a good dye.

See Also

• Gallic acid
• Tannin
• Polyphenol