Flavonoids are derivatives of flavone, plant polyphenols, discovered almost 100 years ago (in 1936 by A. de Szent-Györgyi) are still in the focus of researchers' attention and interest in them is only growing. First of all, this is due to their antioxidant activity and their ability to neutralize free radical oxidation; a number of flavonoids exhibit antibacterial (antimicrobial) activity. The participation of flavonoids in antioxidant processes makes them an important participants in the protection of cell membranes and organelles from lipid peroxidation included in their structure - thus, flavonoids maintain the integrity of membranes, providing protection of cells from the flow of free radicals.
Many studies have proven the participation of flavonoids (especially in synergy with vitamin C) in reducing the permeability and fragility of blood vessel walls, increasing their elasticity, and slowing down blood clotting processes. All of the listed capabilities of flavonoids make them the object of close attention from researchers and open up new opportunities for their study.
Of the studied bioflavonoids (about 6 thousand compounds), one of the most active in the manifestation of antioxidant and anti- inflammatory properties is quercetin. This has led to its use, in particular, as a dietary supplement for the prevention and treatment of coronary heart disease, diabetes mellitus, and non-alcoholic steatohepatitis .
Quercetin easily penetrates cell membranes (enterocytes, erythrocytes, hepatocytes, myelin sheath of axons , etc.), promoting their stabilization and reducing permeability to liquids by counteracting lipid peroxidation (inhibiting lipooxygenase) and the formation of free radicals. Such a mechanism can play a role in preventing premature aging of cells and their early death. Penetrating into the synaptic endings of nerve fibers, quercetin affects the neurohumoral regulation of receptor activity , reducing the release of mediators (adrenaline, histamine, acetylcholine, etc.).
The work provides a comparative assessment of the capabilities of quercetin and some other representatives of flavonoids in expanding their use in medicine .
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