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Biosynthesis of a Flavonol from a Flavanone by Establishing a One-pot Bienzymatic Cascade
Published on: August 14, 2019
The flavonoids of tomatoes
Rune Slimestad1, Torgils Fossen, Michel J Verheul
1Saerheim Research Centre, PlantChem, N-4353 Klepp Station, Norway. rune@plantchem.com
Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry
|March 6, 2008
Summary
Tomatoes contain diverse flavonoids, including two newly identified compounds in the Solanaceae family. Chalconaringenin is the predominant flavonoid, with other significant compounds like phloretin 3
Area of Science:
- Plant biochemistry
- Food science
- Nutraceuticals
Background:
- Tomatoes (Lycopersicon esculentum Mill.) are globally consumed and recognized for their dietary flavonoid content.
- Understanding tomato flavonoid profiles is crucial for nutritional and health-related research.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the qualitative and quantitative flavonoid composition of various tomato cultivars.
- To identify and characterize significant flavonoids, including novel compounds within the Solanaceae family.
Main Methods:
- Utilized 2D NMR techniques and high-resolution LCMS for comprehensive characterization.
- Quantified individual flavonoid contributions and total flavonoid content across different tomato types.
Main Results:
- Identified phloretin 3',5'-di-C-beta-glucopyranoside (a dihydrochalcone C-glycoside) and a specific quercetin derivative as novel in Solanaceae and tomatoes.
- Chalconaringenin was the predominant flavonoid (35-71% of total), with total flavonoid content ranging from 4 to 26 mg/100 g FW.
- Phloretin 3',5'-di-C-beta-glucopyranoside and the identified quercetin derivative were found in quantities similar to rutin in several cultivars.
Conclusions:
- This study expands the known flavonoid diversity in tomatoes, identifying new compounds and characterizing known ones.
- The findings highlight the significant contribution of chalconaringenin and novel compounds to the overall flavonoid profile of tomatoes.
- Results provide valuable data for understanding tomato's nutritional value and potential health benefits.
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