Antioxidant Properties of Phenylpropanoids

Phenylpropanoids (or phenolic compounds) are a large class of plant secondary metabolites usually consisting of six-carbon aromatic phenyl group and three-carbon propane side chain. Flavonoids, monolignols (precursors of lignin), and phenolic acids are three most common groups, which can be found almost in all plants [1]. These compounds have important functions in plants as antibiotics, natural pesticides, signal molecules for the interaction of symbiotic rhizobia with plant roots, attractants for pollinators, protective agents against UV light, and structural material for plant stability [2]. On the other hand, many positive effects of phenolic compounds on human health were found. Phenolic compounds are the most widespread dietary antioxidants. The trend to view many foods not only as sustenance but also a medicine, so called functional food, is increasing [3]. All phenolic compounds as they possess aromatic ring(s) linked to hydroxyl groups are potent antioxidants with usually high redox potentials [4]. High redox potentials allow them to act as reducing agents, hydrogen donors, radical scavengers, and singlet oxygen quenchers. In addition, they have a metal-chelating ability [5]. Therefore, phenolic compounds play an important role in removing of harmful by-products (reactive oxygen species ROS) formed during normal aerobic cell respiration and especially in oxidative stress under pathological conditions [58]. ROS and free radicals-induced oxidation of proteins, lipids, and even DNA lead to the aging and is in relationship with many serious diseases. Massive studies revealed that many widespread chronic diseases such as cardiovascular diseases, type II diabetes, and various cancers can be reduced by taking phenylpropanoids [1,9].