Cyanidin

Chemical structure of cyanidin

Cyanidin, or flavan-3-ol, is a natural organic compound which is classified as a flavonoid and an anthocyanin. It is a pigment found in many redberries including but not limited to bilberry, blackberry, blueberry, cherry, cranberry, elderberry, hawthorn, loganberry and raspberry. It can also be found in other fruits such as apples and plums. The highest concentrations of cyanidin are found in the skin of the fruit. Recently, the biosynthesis of cyanidin 3-O-glucoside in Escherichia coli was demonstrated [link].

Effects on the human body

Cyanidin, like other anthocyanins, has antioxidant and radical-scavenging effects which, protect cells from oxidative damage and reduces the risk of heart diseases and cancer. Studies in Japan carried out by Takanori Tsua et al. led to the theory that cyanidin may aid in preventing obesity and diabetes as well as containing anti-inflammatory effects. Other studies have generally shown that cyanidin may have an important future role in cancer therapy.

References

Phytochemicals website (with book references) [link]

External links

For a full list of external links to MSDSs, spectroscopic data, commercial chemicals suppliers etc. for this compound, see [Chemical sources].

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