Plant phenolics: extraction, analysis and their antioxidant and anticancer properties

Area of Science:

• Plant biochemistry
• Phytochemistry
• Nutritional science

Background:

• Phenolics are abundant plant secondary metabolites with significant antioxidant properties.
• Plant polyphenols are increasingly researched for preventing oxidative stress-related diseases, including cancer.
• Developing plant-derived phenolic compounds is a key area in health and medical research.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide a comprehensive overview of phenolic compounds from plants.
• To detail methods for extraction, purification, analysis, and quantification of phenolics.
• To review the antioxidant and anticancer properties and mechanisms of phenolics.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of phenolic extraction, purification, and analysis techniques.
• Compilation of data on antioxidant activities of plant phenolics.
• Synthesis of findings from in-vitro, in-vivo, and human studies on anticancer effects.

Main Results:

• Phenolics possess strong antioxidant capabilities, crucial for combating oxidative stress.
• Evidence supports the anticancer effects of phenolics in various models.
• Mechanisms include antioxidant/pro-oxidant activity and interference with cellular functions.

Conclusions:

• Plant phenolics are valuable natural compounds with significant health benefits.
• Further research into phenolic compounds offers potential for disease prevention and treatment.
• Understanding their mechanisms is key to harnessing their therapeutic potential.