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Chemistry, Pharmacology and Health Benefits of Anthocyanins
Author(s) -
Smeriglio Antonella,
Barreca Davide,
Bellocco Ersilia,
Trombetta Domenico
Publication year - 2016
Publication title -
phytotherapy research
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.019
H-Index - 129
eISSN - 1099-1573
pISSN - 0951-418X
DOI - 10.1002/ptr.5642
Subject(s) - flavonoid , pharmacology , bioavailability , anthocyanin , chemistry , human health , antioxidant , antimicrobial , traditional medicine , health benefits , medicine , biochemistry , food science , environmental health , organic chemistry
Anthocyanins are naturally occurring molecules belonging to the flavonoid class characterized by the presence of chromophores. Apart from their well‐known antioxidant activity, they show a wide variety of health‐promoting properties for human health, ranging from cytoprotective, antimicrobial and antitumour activities to neuroprotective, anti‐obesity and lipidomic potential, properties for which anthocyanins have been prescribed as medicines in several countries for thousands of years. Despite this, these phytochemicals have received less attention than other flavonoids, and there is still a gap in the literature, particularly regarding pharmacological and toxicological aspects. Moreover, epidemiological evidence suggests a direct correlation between anthocyanin intake and a lower incidence of chronic and degenerative diseases. In light of this, the aim of this review is to cover the current literature on anthocyanins, their biological in vitro and in vivo effects and their potential therapeutic applications, as well as their bioavailability and pharmacokinetics, all of which are essential to gain a better understanding of their biological effectiveness and potential toxicity. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.