Gallocatechin

Gallocatechin is a type of catechin, a natural phenol and antioxidant. It is a plant secondary metabolite. It belongs to the class of organic compounds known as flavan-3-ols. Gallocatechin is found, on average, in the highest concentration within a few different foods, such as tea, apple, and pear and in a lower concentration in kiwi, peach, and plum. Gallocatechin has also been detected, but not quantified in several different foods, such as common wheat, black elderberry, wild celery, common grape, and sweet cherry. This could make gallocatechin a potential biomarker for the consumption of these foods.

Chemical Structure

Gallocatechin's chemical formula is C15H14O7. It is characterized by the presence of two aromatic rings (A and B) and a dihydropyran heterocycle (the C ring) with a hydroxyl group on carbon 3. The A ring of gallocatechin carries two additional hydroxyl groups compared to epicatechin at positions 5 and 7, while the B ring carries a dihydroxy substitution pattern in the ortho position.

File:Gallocatechin.png

Chemical structure of Gallocatechin

Health Benefits

Gallocatechin has been studied for its potential health benefits. It has been found to have antioxidant properties, which can help to neutralize harmful free radicals in the body. Additionally, some studies have suggested that gallocatechin may have anti-cancer properties, although more research is needed in this area. It may also have anti-inflammatory effects and could potentially help to reduce the risk of heart disease.

Sources

The primary natural source of gallocatechin is green tea. It can also be found in certain fruits, such as apples and pears, as well as in red wine.

See Also

• Catechin
• Epicatechin
• Flavan-3-ols
• Green tea
• Antioxidant