Flavonolignans

Flavonolignans are a type of phytochemical that are found in a variety of plants, most notably in the seeds of the milk thistle plant (Silybum marianum). They are a class of flavonoids that are structurally characterized by the combination of a flavonoid unit and a lignan unit.

Structure and Classification

Flavonolignans are composed of a flavonoid unit and a lignan unit. The flavonoid unit is a type of polyphenol that is characterized by a 15-carbon skeleton, which consists of two phenyl groups and a heterocyclic ring. The lignan unit, on the other hand, is a type of polyphenol that is characterized by the presence of a 2,3-dibenzylbutane skeleton.

Flavonolignans can be classified into two main types based on their structural characteristics: neoflavonoids and isoflavonoids. Neoflavonoids are characterized by a 4-phenylcoumarin skeleton, while isoflavonoids are characterized by a 3-phenylchroman skeleton.

Biological Activity

Flavonolignans have been found to exhibit a wide range of biological activities, including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antiviral, and anticancer properties. They have also been found to have hepatoprotective effects, which means that they can protect the liver from damage.

The most well-known flavonolignan is silymarin, which is a complex mixture of flavonolignans that is extracted from the seeds of the milk thistle plant. Silymarin has been used for centuries in traditional medicine for its hepatoprotective effects. Recent studies have also suggested that silymarin may have anticancer properties.

See Also

• Flavonoids
• Lignans
• Phytochemicals
• Silymarin

References

Flavonolignans Resources
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