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Updated: Jun 10, 2026

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Biosynthesis of a Flavonol from a Flavanone by Establishing a One-pot Bienzymatic Cascade
Published on: August 14, 2019
[Flavonoids and phenolic acid derivatives from flos farfarae]
Di Wu1, Mian Zhang, Chaofeng Zhang
1Research Department of Pharmacognosy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 211198, China.
Summary
This study identified 15 chemical compounds from Tussilago farfara flower buds, including seven flavonoids and eight phenolic acid derivatives. Several compounds were isolated from this plant and genus for the first time.
Area of Science:
- Phytochemistry
- Natural Product Chemistry
- Pharmacognosy
Background:
- Tussilago farfara, commonly known as coltsfoot, is a plant with a history of traditional medicinal use.
- Understanding its chemical composition is crucial for validating its therapeutic potential and identifying bioactive compounds.
Purpose of the Study:
- To conduct a detailed investigation of the chemical constituents present in the flower buds of Tussilago farfara.
- To identify and characterize novel or previously unreported compounds from this plant species.
Main Methods:
- Silica gel and Sephadex LH-20 column chromatography were employed for the isolation of chemical constituents.
- Structural elucidation was performed using comprehensive spectral data analysis and assessment of physiochemical properties.
Main Results:
- Fifteen compounds were successfully isolated and identified from the Tussilago farfara flower buds.
- These included seven flavonoids (e.g., quercetin, kaempferol derivatives) and eight phenolic acid derivatives (e.g., caffeic acid, chlorogenic acid derivatives).
Conclusions:
- The study successfully identified a diverse range of flavonoids and phenolic acid derivatives in Tussilago farfara flower buds.
- Specifically, compounds 7, 9-14 represent novel findings, being isolated from this plant and genus for the first time, expanding the known phytochemical profile.
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