Toxicological aspects of flavonoid interaction with biomacromolecules

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Biosynthesis of a Flavonol from a Flavanone by Establishing a One-pot Bienzymatic Cascade
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Biosynthesis of a Flavonol from a Flavanone by Establishing a One-pot Bienzymatic Cascade

Published on: August 14, 2019

Petr Hodek1, Pavel Hanustiak, Jitka Krízková

  • 1Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Science, Charles University, Prague, Czech Republic. hodek@natur.cuni.cz

Neuro Endocrinology Letters
|December 13, 2006
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

While often considered safe, some flavonoids may interact with DNA and increase carcinogen activation. Caution is advised when consuming flavonoids due to potential harmful effects on human health.

Area of Science:

  • Biochemistry
  • Molecular Biology
  • Toxicology

Background:

  • Flavonoids are widely recognized for their health benefits.
  • However, some flavonoids can directly interact with DNA or enhance carcinogen activation, necessitating a detailed examination of their potential risks.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the direct interaction of specific flavonoids with DNA.
  • To determine the effect of flavonoids on the expression of cytochrome P450 1A1 (CYP1A1), an enzyme involved in carcinogen activation.

Main Methods:

  • Square wave voltammetry was used to study the interaction of quercetin and rutin with DNA.
  • Western blotting was employed to measure CYP1A1 levels in animal liver and colon microsomes after flavonoid exposure.

Main Results:

  • Flavonoids, including naringenin, flavone, beta-naphthoflavone, chrysin, quercetin, and diosmin, induced CYP1A1 expression in colon and/or liver tissues.
  • The presence of flavonoids reduced the oxidation signals of guanine and adenine in DNA.

Conclusions:

  • Flavonoid consumption should be approached with caution, despite their natural origin.
  • Increased CYP1A1 expression in colon tissue may contribute to the rising incidence of colorectal cancer.
  • Electrochemical methods are effective for studying flavonoid-DNA interactions.

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