Received 24 August 2013; Accepted 7 October 2013 | Shashank Kumar and Abhay K. Pandey
This review article by Shashank Kumar and Abhay K. Pandey provides an overview of the chemistry and biological activities of flavonoids, which are a diverse group of polyphenolic compounds found in plants. Flavonoids are known for their health benefits, including antioxidant activity, free radical scavenging, coronary heart disease prevention, hepatoprotective effects, anti-inflammatory properties, and anticancer activities. They are primarily obtained from fruits, vegetables, tea, and wine. The article discusses the structural features of flavonoids, their role in human health, and their significance in plants. Additionally, it highlights the potential of microbial biotechnology for cost-effective production of flavonoids. The review also covers the metabolism of flavonoids in humans, their antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and antiviral activities, and their role in combating oxidative stress and regulating growth in plants. The authors conclude by emphasizing the therapeutic potential of flavonoids and the advancements in their large-scale production through genetic modifications.This review article by Shashank Kumar and Abhay K. Pandey provides an overview of the chemistry and biological activities of flavonoids, which are a diverse group of polyphenolic compounds found in plants. Flavonoids are known for their health benefits, including antioxidant activity, free radical scavenging, coronary heart disease prevention, hepatoprotective effects, anti-inflammatory properties, and anticancer activities. They are primarily obtained from fruits, vegetables, tea, and wine. The article discusses the structural features of flavonoids, their role in human health, and their significance in plants. Additionally, it highlights the potential of microbial biotechnology for cost-effective production of flavonoids. The review also covers the metabolism of flavonoids in humans, their antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and antiviral activities, and their role in combating oxidative stress and regulating growth in plants. The authors conclude by emphasizing the therapeutic potential of flavonoids and the advancements in their large-scale production through genetic modifications.