Flavonol

Flavonol is a type of flavonoid, a class of compounds with antioxidant effects. Flavonols are a subclass of flavonoids that have the 3-hydroxyflavone backbone (IUPAC name: 3-hydroxy-2-phenylchromen-4-one). They are distinguished from flavanols (with an "a") such as catechin, another subclass of flavonoids.

Chemical Structure

Flavonols are characterized by the presence of a 3-hydroxyflavone backbone. The backbone consists of two phenyl groups (rings of carbon atoms) bonded to a heterocyclic ring (a ring of atoms of at least two different elements). This structure is also referred to as the C6-C3-C6 skeleton, which may be substituted with different functional groups to yield a variety of flavonols.

File:Flavonol structure.png

Chemical structure of flavonol

Types of Flavonols

There are several types of flavonols, which differ based on the number and arrangement of functional groups attached to the backbone. Some of the most common types include:

• Quercetin: This is the most abundant flavonol in the human diet. It is found in many fruits, vegetables, and grains.
• Kaempferol: This flavonol is found in a variety of plants and plant-based foods, such as apples, onions, tea, and broccoli.
• Myricetin: This flavonol is found in berries, fruits, vegetables, herbs, tea, and wine.
• Fisetin: This flavonol is found in many fruits and vegetables, as well as wine and honey.

Health Benefits

Flavonols have been studied for their potential health benefits. They are known to have antioxidant properties, which means they can neutralize harmful free radicals in the body. Some research suggests that flavonols may also have anti-inflammatory, anti-cancer, and neuroprotective effects. However, more research is needed to fully understand these potential benefits and their implications for human health.

See Also

• Flavonoid
• Antioxidant
• Phenyl group
• Heterocyclic compound