Reaction enthalpies of OH bonds splitting-off in flavonoids: The role of non-polar and polar solvent

The Antioxidant Properties, Metabolism, Application and Mechanism of Ferulic Acid in Medicine, Food, Cosmetics, Livestock and Poultry

Ferulic acid is a ubiquitous ingredient in cereals, vegetables, fruits and Chinese herbal medicines. Due to the ferulic phenolic nucleus coupled to an extended side chain, it readily forms a resonant-stable phenoxy radical, which explains its potent antioxidant potential. In addition, it also plays an important role in anti-cancer, pro-angiogenesis, anti-thrombosis, neuroprotection, food preservation, anti-aging, and improving the antioxidant performance of livestock and poultry. This review provides a comprehensive summary of the structure, mechanism of antioxidation, application status, molecular mechanism of pharmacological activity, existing problems, and application prospects of ferulic acid and its derivatives. The aim is to establish a theoretical foundation for the utilization of ferulic acid in medicine, food, cosmetics, livestock, and poultry.

Predicting the activity of methoxyphenol derivatives antioxidants: II-Importance of the nature of the solvent on the mechanism, a DFT study

The various mechanisms of primary antioxidant action of a series of 2-Methoxyphenols are investigated in the present work. The electronic properties have just been studied in a joint article, so that we focus here on Hydrogen Atom Transfer (HAT), Single Electron Transfer-Proton Transfer (SET-PT) and Sequential Proton-Loss Electron-Transfer (SPLET) mechanisms. The two computational approaches used in the previous study of the structure and reactivity of these compounds [Computational and Theoretical Chemistry 1229 (2023) 114287] provide identical mechanisms trends in gas phase. In gas media, hydrogen atom transfer (HAT) is more favored. On the contrary, the solvent polarity has a significant effect on the mechanism of the antioxidant activity, since the polarity of the solvent increases the contribution of the SPLET mechanism.

A density functional theory benchmark on antioxidant-related properties of polyphenols

In this work, we present a density functional theory benchmark on antioxidant-related properties for a series of six polyphenols that are well-known antioxidants: caffeic acid, cyanidin, ellagic acid, gallic acid, myricetin, and phloretin. Computations on the 24 O-H bond dissociation enthalpies (BDEs) and 6 ionization potentials (IPs) were performed using twenty-three exchange-correlation functionals combined with four different basis sets in the gas-phase, water, and methanol; calibration against the Domain-based Local Pair Natural Orbital CCSD(T) (DLPNO-CCSD(T)) approach was employed. Mean absolute deviation (MAD) as well as linear fitting results suggested the LC-PBE approach as the most suitable for O-H BDEs in the gas-phase. The LC-PBE, M06-2X, and M05-2X results presented the smallest MADs for O-H BDEs when compared to the reference, in water. The LC-PBE results had the smallest MADs for IPs in the gas-phase while M05-2X, M06-2X, LC-PBE, and LC-ωPBE exhibited the best results for MAD in water. We expect the outcomes from the present work will serve as general guidance for researchers working in the field.

Computational-based investigation of antioxidative potential polyphenolic compounds of Salvia officinalis L.: combined DFT and molecular docking approaches

CONTEXT

The antioxidant properties of the three polyphenolic compounds (carnosol, cirsiliol, and luteolin) of Salvia officinalis L. were investigated employing the density functional theory (DFT) calculations at the B3LYP of basis set at 6-311 +  + G (d, p) in order to evaluate their antioxidant activity. The enthalpies of reactions associated with the SET-PT, SPLET, and HAT mechanisms were analyzed in gas and in different solvents using the CPCM (conductor-like polarizable continuum) model. For all possible hydrogen donor sites, the corresponding parameters (BDE, AIP, PDE, PA, ETE, HOMOs, and LUMOs) and reactivity indices (IPE, EA, Χ, η, S, and ω) were also evaluated. The calculated results showed that derivatives 12-OH, 11-OH, 4'-OH, and 3'-OH had the lowest antioxidant activity. The results showed as well that carnosol, cirsiliol, and luteolin have higher reactivity compared to ascorbic acid and could be considered better antioxidants. According to research, the catechol group is crucial in influencing the studied compounds antioxidant activity. The theoretically predicted order of antioxidant efficiencies in this work agrees well with the QSAR (quantitative structure-activity relationship) data. The findings show that in the vacuum as well as benzene media. HAT would be the most effective mechanism; in contrast, the thermodynamic equilibrium approach in polar media is the SPLET mechanism. Likewise, the outcomes of the docking modeling confirm that the selected molecules have high inhibitory activity to glutathione-S-transferases (GSTs) receptors. Moreover, they have very important pharmacokinetic, chemical, and biological profiles. Finally, all the results show that the three natural molecules have good pharmacokinetic profiles, particularly the bioavailability and permeability toward biological membranes.

METHODS

The software packages used in this investigation are Gaussian 16, Discovery studio Visualizer, and AutoDock vina. The three compounds (carnosol, cirsiliol, and luteolin) of Salvia officinalis L. were optimized with DFT/B3LYP of basis set at 6-311 +  + G (d, p). The optimized structures were established via vibrational analysis (i.e., no imaginary frequencies in the frequency set). All enthalpies were zero-point (ZPE) corrected. Vibrational frequency calculations were performed at 298.15 K and 1 atmosphere pressure to determine the thermodynamic characteristics of the investigated reactions. The descriptors were associated with the antioxidant mechanisms for investigated molecules in vacuum and in various solvents. The molecular docking was used by AutoDock vina to estimate and evaluate the title compounds compatibility as potential antioxidant drugs utilizing appropriate receptor proteins. The solvation effect in the medium of benzene (ɛ = 2.27) and water (ɛ = 78.39) was taken into account. Furthermore, a methanol solvent (ɛ = 32.61) was also taken into consideration to compare with the empirical data.

Theoretical Study on the Multiple Free Radical Scavenging Reactions of Pyranoanthocyanins

The free radical trapping capacities of multiple pyranoanthocyanins in wine storage and ageing were theoretically explored by density functional theory (DFT) methods. Intramolecular hydrogen bonds were detected in all pyranoanthocyanins, and the planarity of the compounds worsened with an increasing dielectric constant in the environment. Solvents significantly influenced the reaction enthalpies; thus, the preferred thermodynamic mechanisms of the free radical scavenging reactions were modified in different phases. This study incorporates hydrogen atom transfer (HAT), proton loss (PL), electron transfer (ET) reactions, and demethylation (De) of methoxy group mechanisms. The three pyranoanthocyanins have the capacity to capture n1+1 free radicals, where n1 represents the number of methoxy groups. In the gas phase, they prefer employing the n1-De-HAT mechanism on the guaiacyl moiety of the B ring, resulting in the formation of a stable quinone or a quinone radical to scavenge free radicals. In the benzene phase, pyranoanthocyanins trap free radicals via a PL-n1-De-HAT mechanism. In the water phase, the targeted pyranoanthocyanins may dissociate in the form of carboxylate and tend to utilize the n2-PL-n1-De-ET mechanism, where n2 and n1 represent the number of phenolic groups and methoxy groups, respectively, facilitating multiple H+/e- reactions.

A DFT-Based Mechanism Analysis of the Cyclodextrin Inclusion on the Radical Scavenging Activity of Apigenin

Natural flavonoids are renowned for their exceptional antioxidant properties, but their limited water solubility hampers their bioavailability. One approach to enhancing their water solubility and antioxidant activity involves the use of cyclodextrin (CD) inclusion. This study investigated the impact of CD inclusion on the three primary radical scavenging mechanisms associated with flavonoid antioxidant activity, utilizing apigenin as a representative flavonoid and employing density functional theory (DFT) calculations. Initially, the optimized geometries of CD-apigenin inclusion complexes were analyzed, revealing the formation of hydrogen bonds between CD and apigenin. In less polar environments, the inclusion complex strengthened the bond dissociation enthalpies of hydroxyl groups, thereby reducing antioxidant activity. Conversely, in polar environments, the inclusion complex had the opposite effect by lowering proton affinity. These findings align with experimental results demonstrating that CD inclusion complexation enhances flavonoid antioxidant activity in aqueous ethanol solutions.

The mechanistic insights into the role of pH and solvent on antiradical and prooxidant properties of polyphenols - Nine compounds case study

Polyphenols are the most widely intake exogenous antioxidants. Their properties prevent the accumulation of radicals in the body and the development of oxidative stress, a recognized trigger for some diseases and a manifestation of others. Nonetheless, apart from their beneficial effects, polyphenols might also exhibit prooxidant potential, often observed as the oxidation of transition state metals, resulting in amplified radical production. DFT studies at the B3LYP/6-311++G(d,p) level of theory were conducted on nine common polyphenolic compounds to assess both activities in physiologically relevant media. It has been found that there is a fine line between antioxidant and prooxidant character, and increasing pH values promote the occurrence of the latter. Anthocyanidins proved to be the most potent radical scavengers, particularly under slightly alkaline conditions, followed by flavonoids and phenolic acids last. Antiradical activity is better in a polar solvent than in apolar one, due to the possibility of dissociation.

Confusoside, a dihydrochalcone glucoside, prevents acetaminophen-induced liver injury by modulating the Nrf2/NF-κB/caspase signaling pathway

Dihydrochalcones are important bioactive ingredients in plants. Anneslea fragrans is an edible and medicinal plant, and its leaves are rich in dihydrochalcones. Confusoside (CF) is the most abundant dihydrochalcone in A. fragrans leaves, which is traditionally used in the treatment of liver diseases. The aim of this study was to investigate the hepatoprotective effect of CF on acetaminophen (APAP)-induced hepatic injury in mice. CF could reduce the levels of AST, ALT, and LDH in the serum and enhance the antioxidant activity by activating the Nrf2 signaling pathway to increase the activities of antioxidant enzymes (SOD and CAT), and the GSH content but decrease the MDA accumulation in liver tissues. Immunofluorescence assay and western blotting analysis showed that CF can regulate Nrf2 into the cell nucleus, thereby promoting the expression of downstream antioxidant-related proteins, including NQO1 and HO-1. In addition, CF could inhibit the liver inflammatory response by suppressing the activation of the NF-κB signaling pathway to reduce the expressions of TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6, and NO. Molecular docking results showed that there was good binding between the CF and Keap1-Nrf2 protein. Western blotting and TUNEL analysis also revealed CF-inhibited cell apoptosis-related protein expression (Bcl2 and caspase-3/9 proteins). Thus, the CF from A. fragrans leaves could be served as an alternative hepaprotective agent for the treatment and prevention of APAP-induced liver injury.

Quantum-mechanical characteristics of apigenin: Antiradical, metal chelation and inhibitory properties in physiologically relevant media

Density functional theory was used to examine the antioxidant activity of apigenin. All protonated species that are present in a non-negligible population at physiological pH were considered in the study. The ability to scavenge the hydroperoxide radical was evaluated in lipid and aqueous environments. The capacity to halt the Fenton reaction by chelating Fe(III) and Cu(II) ions was also investigated, as was the ability to inhibit xanthine oxidase. The results indicate that these activities may be particularly important in describing the beneficial effects of apigenin, especially because of its lower anti-•OOH potential than Trolox or vitamin C. The findings underscore the significant role of dianion in the antiradical and chelating properties, despite its presence in much lower molar fractions than other ions.

Fisetin and Robinetin antiradical activity under solvent effect: density functional theory study

The structural and antioxidant activity of two flavonols, namely, Fisetin and Robinetin, have been investigated employing the density functional theory (DFT) using B3LYP functional and 6-311++G (d, p) basis set. The calculations were performed in the gas phase and under the solvent effect of water, dimethylsulfoxide (DMSO), methanol, and benzene. The Hydrogen-Atom Transfer (HAT), single Electron Transfer Followed by Proton Transfer (SET-PT), and sequential Proton Loss Electron Transfer (SPLET) mechanisms were investigated to rationalize the radical scavenging capacities and to identify the favored antioxidant mechanism. Hence, the bond dissociation enthalpies (BDE) ionization potential (IP), IE, proton dissociation enthalpy (PDE), proton affinity (PA), and electron Transfer enthalpy (ETE) related to each mechanism were reported and discussed in function of the solvent effect. For both flavonols, the results showed that 4'-OH hydroxyl is the preferred active site following the trend 4'-OH > 3'-OH > 3-OH > (5'-OH) > 7-OH. Besides, the HAT mechanism is energetically the most favored pathway. The energetically favored solvents follow the trends water > DMSO > benzene > methanol and benzene > DMSO > methanol > water, for Fisetin and Robinetin, respectively.

Quercetin: A Molecule of Great Biochemical and Clinical Value and Its Beneficial Effect on Diabetes and Cancer

Quercetin belongs to the broader category of polyphenols. It is found, in particular, among the flavonols, and along with kaempferol, myricetin and isorhamnetin, it is recognized as a foreign substance after ingestion in contrast to vitamins. Quercetin occurs mainly linked to sugars with the most common compounds being quercetin-3-O-glucoside or as an aglycone, especially in the plant population. The aim of this review is to present a recent bibliography on the mechanisms of quercetin absorption and metabolism, bioavailability, and antioxidant and the clinical effects in diabetes and cancer. The literature reports a positive effect of quercetin on oxidative stress, cancer, and the regulation of blood sugar levels. Moreover, research-administered drug dosages of up to 2000 mg per day showed mild to no symptoms of overdose. It should be noted that quercetin is no longer considered a carcinogenic substance. The daily intake of quercetin in the diet ranges 10 mg-500 mg, depending on the type of products consumed. This review highlights that quercetin is a valuable dietary antioxidant, although a specific daily recommended intake for this substance has not yet been determined and further studies are required to decide a beneficial concentration threshold.

Thermochemistry of antioxidant action of isoflavones and their deprotonated forms in aqueous solution: hydrogen or electron transfer?

Isoflavones possessing several weak acidic hydroxyl groups can undergo successive deprotonations in aqueous solutions. Therefore, their antioxidant properties cannot be ascribed only to the neutral forms but also to corresponding phenoxide anions. It was already confirmed that isoflavones prefer the formation of dianions in aqueous solution. For eight isoflavones and their preferred (poly)deprotonated forms, thermochemistry of hydrogen atom transfer and electron abstraction was studied in terms of corresponding reaction enthalpies, i.e., O—H bond dissociation enthalpies and ionization potentials. Our results clearly indicate that the increase in negative charge causes significant drop in ionization potential and bond dissociation enthalpy. On the other hand, proton affinities show the opposite trend. Thus, it is unfeasible to find a generally valid trend for dianions — corresponding reaction enthalpies strongly depend on the structure of isoflavone, especially on the number/positions of OH groups.

Antioxidant activity of delphinidin and pelargonidin: Theory and practice

The quantum chemical density functional theory and in vitro chemical-based antioxidant assays were used to research the reaction mechanism of delphinidin/pelargonidin with free radicals including superoxide anion radicals (O₂ ^- ∙) and hydroperoxide radicals (OOH∙). The geometric configuration, bond dissociation energy, PCM (polarizable continuum model) solvent model reaction enthalpy changes were studied to explain the transition states, and the reaction enthalpy change value was calculated to determine the active site. From the results of spatial configuration, delphinidin showed a stronger conjugation effect than that of pelargonidin. The dihedral angle between the three rings of delphinidin was almost 180°, and the angle between the B and C rings was only -2.81868°. Both coplanar and antioxidant activity of delphinidin was better than pelargonidin. The consequences of reaction enthalpy change in PCM were consistent with the bond dissociation energy. The phenolic hydroxyl bond dissociation energy of delphinidin was slightly smaller than that of pelargonidin. Moreover, the C4' site of delphinidin and the C3 site of pelargonidin were the active sites for scavenging free radicals. The free radical scavenging ability of delphinidin was marginally higher than that of pelargonidin. On the other hand, in vitro antioxidant results proved the scavenging ability of delphinidin and pelargonidin on superoxide anions, DPPH, and ABTS^∙+ free radicals. It was shown that the chemical-based antioxidant activity was consistent with the theoretical calculation results, with delphinidin showing greater antioxidant activity. These results could explain the antioxidant mechanism of delphinidin/pelargonidin in scavenging free radicals from chemical reactions. PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS: This manuscript explained the antioxidant mechanism of delphinidin/pelargonidin in scavenging free radicals through the analysis of the geometric configuration of delphinidin/pelargonidin and the theoretical calculation of the reaction transition state. It could also speculate on the possible reaction sites, and provide a basis for judging how to efficiently select antioxidants with great antioxidant activity.

Photophysical Behavior of Plant Flavonols Galangin, Kaempferol, Quercetin, and Myricetin in Homogeneous Media and the DMPC Model Membrane: Unveiling the Influence of the B-Ring Hydroxylation of Flavonols

Flavonols have been studied extensively because of their interesting biological activities and excited-state intramolecular proton transfer (ESIPT) behavior. Galangin, kaempferol, quercetin, and myricetin are structurally related flavonols that differ only in the number of B-ring hydroxyl substituents. In this work, we have carried out a detailed study on the photophysical behavior of these structurally related flavonols in various solvents and a 1,2-dimyristoyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphocholine (DMPC) small unilamellar vesicles (SUVs) model membrane. We observed that these flavonols exist in different forms in the ground and excited states depending on the nature of the solvent. The weak intrinsic fluorescence of these flavonols gets enhanced in hydrogen-bond-accepting and alcoholic solvents. The phototautomer fluorescence intensity of these flavonols increases significantly in the DMPC membrane compared to water, suggesting ESIPT activation via binding interaction between flavonols and the membrane. According to our findings, both the number of B-ring hydroxy groups and membrane fluidity affect the flavonol binding with the membrane. The steady-state fluorescence intensity, steady-state anisotropy, fluorescence lifetime, and fluorescence anisotropy decay of flavonols were sensitive towards the temperature-induced DMPC membrane phase change. A quenching study has been performed to investigate the location and distribution of flavonols in the DMPC SUVs. Moreover, the antioxidant potential of flavonols in DMPC SUVs has been examined using the DPPH scavenging method. Our results reveal that the B-ring hydroxy groups significantly affect the photophysics, binding affinity, location, distribution, and DPPH scavenging activity of polyhydroxy-flavonols in the DMPC SUVs.

Radical Scavenging Mechanisms of Phenolic Compounds: A Quantitative Structure-Property Relationship (QSPR) Study

Due to their antioxidant properties, secondary plant metabolites can scavenge free radicals such as reactive oxygen species and protect foods from oxidation processes. Our aim was to study structural influences, like basic structure, number of hydroxyl groups and number of Bors criteria on the outcome of the oxygen radical absorbance capacity (ORAC) assay. Furthermore, similarities and differences to other in vitro antioxidant assays were analyzed by principal component analysis. Our studies confirmed that the antioxidant behavior in the ORAC assay is dominated by the number and types of substituents and not by the Bors criteria, as long as no steric hindrance occurs. For example, morin (MOR) with five hydroxyl groups and two Bors criteria reached an area under the curve of (3.64 ± 0.08) × 105, which was significantly higher than quercetin-7-D-glucoside (QGU7) (P < 0.001), and thus the highest result. Principal component analysis showed different dependencies regarding structural properties of Folin-Ciocalteu (FC)- and 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH)-assays or 2,2'-azino-bis (3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) (ABTS)- and ORAC-assays, respectively. Therefore, we conclude that they are based on different reaction mechanisms. The number of hydroxyl groups showed a stronger influence on the antioxidant activity than the Bors criteria. Due to these differences, the correlation of these rapid tests to specific applications should be validated.

Multiple free radical scavenging reactions of aurones

A series of naturally occurring 3',4'-dihydroxy aurones have been studied with regard to multiple free radical scavenging reactions in the gas and two liquid phases using density functional theory (DFT). All of the aurones prefer to perform (2 + n)-HAT mechanism to trap 2 + n free radicals, where n is the sum of the numbers of catechol and guaiacyl units in the gas and benzene phases. The second HAT reaction favours occurring in the same catechol moiety of the first HAT mechanism occurring OH group due to the formation of a stable quinone and the highly exothermic step of the final stable product formation. The catechol and guaiacyl moieties show increased potency for the second and fourth H⁺/e^‒ reactions. In the water phase, aurones can perform multiple H⁺/e^‒ reactions through n₁PL-ET-n₂HAT-(n+1-n₂)ET mechanism, where n₁ is the number of OH groups and n₂ is the number of guaiacyl moieties.

Multiple free radical scavenging reactions of aurones

A series of naturally occurring 3',4'-dihydroxy aurones have been studied with regard to multiple free radical scavenging reactions in the gas and two liquid phases using density functional theory (DFT). All of the aurones prefer to perform (2 + n)-HAT mechanism to trap 2 + n free radicals, where n is the sum of the numbers of catechol and guaiacyl units in the gas and benzene phases. The second HAT reaction favours occurring in the same catechol moiety of the first HAT mechanism occurring OH group due to the formation of a stable quinone and the highly exothermic step of the final stable product formation. The catechol and guaiacyl moieties show increased potency for the second and fourth H⁺/e^‒ reactions. In the water phase, aurones can perform multiple H⁺/e^‒ reactions through n₁PL-ET-n₂HAT-(n+1-n₂)ET mechanism, where n₁ is the number of OH groups and n₂ is the number of guaiacyl moieties.

Physicochemical, antioxidant properties of carotenoids and its optoelectronic and interaction studies with chlorophyll pigments

The physicochemical and antioxidant properties of seven carotenoids: antheraxanthin, β-carotene, neoxanthin, peridinin, violaxanthin, xanthrophyll and zeaxanthin were studied by theoretical means. Then the Optoelectronic properties and interaction of chlorophyll-carotenoid complexes are analysed by TDDFT and IGMPLOT. Global reactivity descriptors for carotenoids and chlorophyll (Chla, Chlb) are calculated via conceptual density functional theory (CDFT). The higher HOMO-LUMO (HL) gap indicated structural stability of carotenoid, chlorophyll and chlorophyll-carotenoid complexes. The chemical hardness for carotenoids and Chlorophyll is found to be lower in the solvent medium than in the gas phase. Results showed that carotenoids can be used as good reactive nucleophile due to lower µ and ω. As proton affinities (PAs) are much lower than the bond dissociation enthalpies (BDEs), it is anticipated that direct antioxidant activity in these carotenoids is mainly due to the sequential proton loss electron transfer (SPLET) mechanism with dominant solvent effects. Also lower PAs of carotenoid suggest that antioxidant activity by the SPLET mechanism should be a result of a balance between proclivities to transfer protons. Reaction rate constant with Transition-State Theory (TST) were estimated for carotenoid-Chlorophyll complexes in gas phase. Time dependent Density Functional Theory (TDDFT) showed that all the chlorophyll (Chla, Chlb)-carotenoid complexes show absorption wavelength in the visible region. The lower S1-T1 adiabatic energy gap indicated ISC transition from S1 to T1 state.

Green One-Pot Synthesis of Coumarin-Hydroxybenzohydrazide Hybrids and Their Antioxidant Potency

Compounds from the plant world that possess antioxidant abilities are of special importance for the food and pharmaceutical industry. Coumarins are a large, widely distributed group of natural compounds, usually found in plants, often with good antioxidant capacity. The coumarin-hydroxybenzohydrazide derivatives were synthesized using a green, one-pot protocol. This procedure includes the use of an environmentally benign mixture (vinegar and ethanol) as a catalyst and solvent, as well as very easy isolation of the desired products. The obtained compounds were structurally characterized by IR and NMR spectroscopy. The purity of all compounds was determined by HPLC and by elemental microanalysis. In addition, these compounds were evaluated for their in vitro antioxidant activity. Mechanisms of antioxidative activity were theoretically investigated by the density functional theory approach and the calculated values of various thermodynamic parameters, such as bond dissociation enthalpy, proton affinity, frontier molecular orbitals, and ionization potential. In silico calculations indicated that hydrogen atom transfer and sequential proton loss-electron transfer reaction mechanisms are probable, in non-polar and polar solvents respectively. Additionally, it was found that the single-electron transfer followed by proton transfer was not an operative mechanism in either solvent. The conducted tests indicate the excellent antioxidant activity, as well as the low potential toxicity, of the investigated compounds, which makes them good candidates for potential use in food chemistry.

Benchmarking Antioxidant-Related Properties for Gallic Acid through the Use of DFT, MP2, CCSD, and CCSD(T) Approaches

We present a benchmark investigation on the O-H bond dissociation enthalpies (BDEs) and ionization potential (IP) for gallic acid (GA), a widely known polyphenolic antioxidant. These properties were determined in the gas-phase and in water through the use of density functional theory (DFT), second-order Møller-Plesset perturbation theory (MP2), coupled-cluster with single and double excitations (CCSD), and coupled-cluster with single and double excitations as well as perturbative inclusion of triples (CCSD(T)). The 6-311++G(df,p), cc-pVDZ, aug-cc-pVDZ, cc-pVTZ, and aug-cc-pVTZ basis sets were used. Regarding DFT functionals, the M06-2X provided the best agreement for the BDEs when compared to the corresponding CCSD(T)/aug-cc-pVTZ results; M06-2X was also found to be the most suitable for probing the IP for the protonated forms of GA while LC-ωPBE was the most reliable in the case of deprotonated GA. Given that these properties represent important descriptors for examining mechanisms related to the antioxidant potential of a given polyphenol, we hope that the present work can serve as a guide for computational chemists venturing in the field.

Antioxidant action of deprotonated flavonoids: Thermodynamics of sequential proton-loss electron-transfer

Despite the intensive research on radical scavenging action of flavonoids, a systematic study of the thermochemistry for their mono-deprotonated species in aqueous solution is still missing. In this work, reaction enthalpies related to Sequential Proton-Loss Electron-Transfer (SPLET) mechanism were theoretically investigated for all mono-deprotonated forms of nine flavonoids: apigenin, luteolin, fisetin, kaempferol, quercetin, taxifolin, tricetin, tricin and cyanidin. Differences in reaction enthalpies of the first and the second deprotonation can be lower than 10 kJ mol^-1, when two successive deprotonations occur in different aromatic rings of the molecule. For neutral flavonoids, thermodynamically preferred deprotonation sites are 4'-OH and 7-OH groups. In cyanidin (cation in native form), preferred second deprotonation site is 5-OH group. In the case of the formation of the preferred dianions, reaction enthalpies of the second proton loss are not affected by the structural distinctions between the flavonoids. In aqueous solution, deprotonated flavonoids show higher tendency to enter SPLET mechanism in comparison to Hydrogen Atom Transfer (HAT) or electron transfer.

Free radical scavenging potency of ellagic acid and its derivatives in multiple H+/e‒ processes

The reaction energetics of the multiple free radical scavenging mechanisms of ellagic acid and its derivatives were studied by DFT method. Ellagic acid and its derivatives that bear catechol or guaiacyl moieties can proceed multiple free radical scavenging processes. Intramolecular hydrogen-bonds were found in the most stable geometries of the investigated compounds and can influence the antioxidant activity of the related groups and hydrogen atom/proton loss sequence. The stronger hydrogen-bond, the weaker antioxidant activity of the hydrogen atom/proton-donating group. The preferred mechanisms vary among different phases. All of the investigated compounds prefer to trap free radicals by multiple HAT mechanisms in gas and benzene phases. The second HAT reaction preferably occurs in the same catechol or guaiacyl unit of the first HAT group with the formation of stable quinone or benzodioxole. The catechol and guaiacyl moieties not only retain high free radical scavenging ability of the parent compounds but even show increased potency for the second and fourth H⁺/e^‒ reactions. In water phase, ellagic acid and its derivatives would proceed consecutively PL reactions from the OH groups. The formed di/tri/tetra-anion would proceed one/four electron transfers following with single/double SPLET mechanism and electron donation reactions until forming the stable quinone or benzodioxole.

Role of C‒H bond in the antioxidant activities of rooperol and its derivatives: A DFT study

Rooperol and its derivatives, derived from the Hypoxis rooperi plant, are polyphenolic and norlignan compounds with excellent antioxidant activities. The reaction enthalpies for the free-radical scavenging by rooperol and its six derivatives were studied using density functional theory. We found that the C-H groups played a significant role in the antioxidant activities in non-polar phases. In the gas and benzene phases, rooperol and its derivatives preferentially underwent the free-radical scavenging process via the 3‒CH group by following the hydrogen atom transfer (HAT) mechanism. In polar phases, the sequential proton loss electron transfer (SPLET) was the most preferred mechanism, and the phenolic O‒H groups played a significant role. Additionally, we found that when the hydrogen atom in the OH group was replaced by a glucose moiety, the antioxidant activity of the adjacent OH group was reduced. ROP, DHROP-I, DHROP-II, ROP-4″-G and ROP-4'G have catechol moiety, they may proceed double step-wise mechanisms to trap free radicals. In the gas and benzene phases, the preferable mechanism is dHAT. In water phase, it is SPLHAT.

Proanthocyanidins: Components, Pharmacokinetics and Biomedical Properties

Proanthocyanidins (PAs) are a group of polyphenols enriched in plant and human food. In recent decades, epidemiological studies have upheld the direct relationship between PA consumption and health benefits; therefore, studies on PAs have become a research hotspot. Although the oral bioavailability of PAs is quite low, pharmacokinetics data revealed that some small molecules and colonic microbial metabolites of PAs could be absorbed and exert their health beneficial effects. The pharmacological effects of PAs mainly include anti-oxidant, anticancer, anti-inflammation, antimicrobial, cardiovascular protection, neuroprotection, and metabolism-regulation behaviors. Moreover, current toxicological studies show that PAs have no observable toxicity to humans. This review summarizes the resources, extraction, structures, pharmacokinetics, pharmacology, and toxicology of PAs and discusses the limitations of current studies. Areas for further research are also proposed.

Structure-antioxidant activity relationship of methoxy, phenolic hydroxyl, and carboxylic acid groups of phenolic acids

The antioxidant activities of 18 typical phenolic acids were investigated using 2, 2′-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) and ferric ion reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) assays. Five thermodynamic parameters involving hydrogen atom transfer (HAT), single-electron transfer followed by proton transfer (SET-PT), and sequential proton-loss electron transfer (SPLET) mechanisms were calculated using density functional theory with the B3LYP/UB3LYP functional and 6–311++G (d, p) basis set and compared in the phenolic acids. Based on the same substituents on the benzene ring, -CH₂COOH and -CH = CHCOOH can enhance the antioxidant activities of phenolic acids, compared with -COOH. Methoxyl (-OCH₃) and phenolic hydroxyl (-OH) groups can also promote the antioxidant activities of phenolic acids. These results relate to the O-H bond dissociation enthalpy of the phenolic hydroxyl group in phenolic acids and the values of proton affinity and electron transfer enthalpy (ETE) involved in the electron donation ability of functional groups. In addition, we speculated that HAT, SET-PT, and SPLET mechanisms may occur in the DPPH reaction system. Whereas SPLET was the main reaction mechanism in the FRAP system, because, except for 4-hydroxyphenyl acid, the ETE values of the phenolic acids in water were consistent with the experimental results.

Theoretical insight into the antioxidative activity of isoflavonoid: The effect of the C2=C3 double bond

Isoflavonoids are one of the most important groups of naturally occurring antioxidants. Their structural features are important for evaluating their antioxidative activity. In this work, density functional theory (DFT) methods were applied to investigate the influence of the C2=C3 double bond on the antioxidative activity of isoflavonoids based on three currently accepted radical scavenging mechanisms from the viewpoint of thermodynamics. The C2=C3 double bond can make the compounds more flat, which would extend the conjugated system in the molecule and make the isoflavonoids higher antioxidant activity. The C2=C3 double bond would not alter the strongest antioxidative hydroxyl group of the isoflavonoids. In the gas, benzene and CHCl₃ phases, the C2=C3 double bond will enhance the antioxidative activity of isoflavonoids by lowering the bond dissociation enthalpies of the hydroxyl groups in the B ring that are the strongest antioxidative sites for the hydrogen atom transfer (HAT) mechanism. In polar phases, a similar result is obtained by weakening the proton affinity of 7-OH that is the strongest antioxidative hydroxyl group in the sequential proton loss electron transfer (SPLET), mechanism. Thus, the C2=C3 double bond will enhance the antioxidative activity of isoflavonoids irrespective of the studied phases.

Thermodynamics of primary antioxidant action of flavonols in polar solvents

Very recently, a report on the antioxidant activity of flavonoids has appeared, where authors concluded that Hydrogen Atom Transfer mechanism represents the thermodynamically preferred mechanism in polar media (https://doi.org/10.1016/j.foodres.2018.11.018). Unfortunately, serious errors in the theoretical part of the paper led to incorrect conclusions. For six flavonols (galangin, kaempferol, quercetin, morin, myricetin, and fisetin), reaction enthalpies related to three mechanisms of the primary antioxidant action were computed. Based on the obtained results, the role of intramolecular hydrogen bonds (IHB) in the thermodynamics of the antioxidant effect is presented. Calculations and the role of solvation enthalpies of proton and electron in the determination of thermodynamically preferred mechanism is also briefly explained and discussed. The obtained results are in accordance with published works considering the Sequential Proton-Loss Electron-Transfer thermodynamically preferred reaction pathway.

The influence of the H5⋯OC4 intramolecular hydrogen-bond (IHB) on the antioxidative activity of flavonoid

Flavonoids widely found in natural foods are characterized by acting as antioxidants compounds. There are close relationship between the antiradical activities and structural properties of flavonoids. In this work, density functional theory (DFT) methods were applied to investigate the influence of the H5⋯OC4 intramolecular hydrogen-bond (IHB) on the antiradical activity of flavonoid based on three prevalently accepted radical scavenging mechanisms: hydrogen atom transfer (HAT), single electron transfer-proton transfer (SET-PT) and sequential proton-loss electron-transfer (SPLET). The thermodynamic properties: bond dissociation enthalpy (BDE), ionization potential (IP), proton dissociation enthalpy (PDE), proton affinity (PA) and electron transfer enthalpy (ETE) related with these mechanisms were calculated to elucidate the antiradical activity. The results showed that the 5-OH group is most influenced and its antiradical capacity was weakened by the H5⋯OC4 IHB. In the gas, benzene and chloroform phases, H5⋯OC4 IHB would reduce the antiradical activity of flavonoid via increasing the bond dissociation enthalpy. While, in the DMSO and H₂O phases, the opposite result occurs by lowering the proton affinity.

DFT Studies on the Antioxidant Activity of Naringenin and Its Derivatives: Effects of the Substituents at C3

The radical scavenging activity of a flavonoid is largely influenced by its structure. The effects of the substituents at C3 position on the antioxidant activity of naringenin were carried out using the density functional theory (DFT) method. The reaction enthalpies related with the three well-established mechanisms were analyzed. Excellent correlations were found between the reaction enthalpies and Hammett sigma constants. Equations obtained from the linear regression can be helpful in the selection of suitable candidates for the synthesis of novel naringenin derivatives with enhanced antioxidant properties. In the gas and benzene phases, the antioxidant activity of naringenin was enhanced by the electron-donating substituents via weakening the bond dissociation enthalpy (BDE). In the water phase, it was strengthened by electron-withdrawing groups—via lowering the proton affinity (PA). The electronic effect of the substituent on the BDE of naringenin is mainly governed by the resonance effect, while that on the ionization potential (IP) and PA of naringenin is mainly controlled by the field/inductive effect.

Substituent Effects on the Radical Scavenging Activity of Isoflavonoid

Understanding the role of substituents is of great importance for the preparation of novel phenolic compounds with enhanced antioxidative properties. In this work, the antioxidative activity of isoflavonoid derivatives with different substituents placed at the C2 position was determined by density functional theory (DFT) calculations. The bond dissociation enthalpy (BDE), ionization potential (IP), and proton affinity (PA) related to hydrogen atom transfer (HAT), single electron transfer-proton transfer (SET-PT), and sequential proton loss electron transfer (SPLET) mechanisms were calculated. The strongest antioxidative group of isoflavonoid is not altered by the substituents. Excellent correlations were found between the BDE/IP/PA and Hammett sigma constants. Equations obtained from linear regression can be useful in the selection of suitable candidates for the synthesis of novel isoflavonoids derivatives with enhanced antioxidative properties. In the gas and benzene phases, the electron-donating substituents would enhance the antioxidative activity of isoflavonoids via weakening the BDE of 4′−OH. In water phase, they will reduce the antioxidative by strengthening the PA of 7−OH. Contrary results occur for the electron-withdrawing groups. In addition, the electronic effects of substituents on the BDE/IP/PA have also been analyzed.

The influence of C2C3 double bond on the antiradical activity of flavonoid: Different mechanisms analysis

Flavonoids widely found in bee products are excellent antioxidants. The structural features are important in evaluating the antiradical activity of flavonoid. In this work, the density functional theory (DFT) methods were applied to investigate the influence of C2C3 double bond on the antiradical activity of flavonoid based on three prevalently accepted radical scavenging mechanisms from the thermodynamic aspect. It is found that the hydroxyl groups in different rings are affected variously by the C2C3 double bond and the 3OH group is most influenced. For the compounds that only differ with the C2C3 double bond, the antiradical activity of flavone or flavonol (possessing C2C3 double bond) is not always stronger than that of flavanone: in the weak polarity phases, only the antiradical activities of chrysin, galangin and morin are stronger than those of pinocembrin, pinobanksin and dihydro-morin, respectively. In polar phases, the C2C3 double bond would weaken the antiradical activity of flavonoid via enlarging the proton affinity and the antiradical activity of flavone or flavonol is weaker than that of flavanone.

The antioxidative activity of piceatannol and its different derivatives: Antioxidative mechanism analysis

The naturally occurring stilbenes piceatannol and its derivatives are excellent antioxidants. In this work, the antioxidative activities of piceatannol and different piceatannol derivatives have been investigated using the density functional theory (DFT) method based on three widely accepted radical scavenging mechanisms, namely, the hydrogen atom transfer (HAT), single electron transfer followed by proton transfer (SET-PT) and sequential proton loss electron transfer (SPLET). The gas and four solvent phases, namely, bond dissociation enthalpy (BDE), ionization potential (IP), proton dissociation enthalpy (PDE), proton affinity (PA) and electron transfer enthalpy (ETE), related to these mechanisms were calculated to elucidate the antioxidative capacities of the investigated compounds. This work focuses specifically on the thermodynamically preferred mechanism, antioxidative site and antioxidative activity order of the investigated stilbenes. The substituted effects of the methyl group and prenyl group on the chemical properties of the remaining OH and CH groups are also analysed. This work confirms the vital role of the OH and CH groups on free radical scavenging of piceatannol and its derivatives.

Thermodynamics of radical scavenging of symmetric carotenoids and their charged species

For nine symmetric natural carotenoids, a comprehensive thermodynamics study of processes associated with their radical scavenging activity is proposed. We have investigated the hydrogen atom transfer (HAT) from the parent carotenoid, mono-radical species, radical cations and radical anions. Electron transfer and proton transfer reactions were also studied. Terminal units and carbon atoms in their vicinity were identified as thermodynamically favoured reaction sites of the HAT mechanism. Rhodoxanthin, canthaxanthin and astaxanthin, as strong antioxidants, without any pro-oxidative effect, were found to have bond dissociation enthalpies (BDE) higher than 300 kJ mol^-1 and the most negative electron affinities. The electron transfer to a carotenoid is exothermic, while other studied reactions are endothermic. In solvent, the electron transfer reactions may be preferred instead of hydrogen atom transfer.

Structure-antioxidant capacity relationship of dihydrochalcone compounds in Malus

The antioxidant capacity (AC) of six dihydrochalcone compounds was evaluated using DPPH and ABTS assays. In water-based solution 3-hydroxyphlorizin exhibited the highest AC among all dihydrochalcones. In acetone and acidic solutions (pH = 2.5 or 2.0), presence of an o-dihydroxyl at the B-ring increased AC, whereas glycosylation at the A-ring decreased AC of dihydrochalcones. By comparing the AC of dihydrochalcones with similar structures, it was found that the o-dihydroxyl at the B-ring and 2'-hydroxyl group at the A-ring were critical for maintaining the AC of dihydrochalcones by promoting hydrogen atom transfer or single electron transfer mechanism. Sequential proton-loss electron transfer commonly occurred during free radical scavenging in water-based solution. Moreover, we report a unique phenomenon in which glycosylation at the 2'-position enhanced the dissociation ability of the 4'-hydroxyl group and increased the AC of dihydrochalcones containing o-dihydroxyl. We speculate that this increase in AC might occur through intramolecular electron transfer.

The Substituent Effect on the Radical Scavenging Activity of Apigenin

Flavonoids widely found in natural foods are excellent free radical scavengers. The relationship between the substituent and antioxidative activity of flavonoids has not yet been completely elucidated. In this work, the antioxidative activity of apigenin derivatives with different substituents at the C3 position was determined by density functional theory (DFT) calculations. The bond dissociation enthalpy (BDE), ionization potential (IP), and proton affinity (PA) were calculated. Donator acceptor map (DAM) analysis illustrated that the studied compounds are worse electron acceptors than F and also are not better electron donors than Na. The strongest antioxidative group of apigenin derivatives was the same as apigenin. Excellent correlations were found between the BDE/IP/PA and Hammett sigma constants. Therefore, Hammett sigma constants can be used to predict the antioxidative activity of substituted apigenin and to design new antioxidants based on flavonoids. In non-polar phases, the antioxidative activity of apigenin was increased by the electron-withdrawing groups, while it was reduced by the electron-donating groups. Contrary results occurred in the polar phase. The electronic effect of the substituents on BDE(4'-OH), BDE(5-OH), PA(4'-OH), and IP is mainly controlled by the resonance effect, while that on BDE(7-OH), PA(5-OH), and PA(7-OH) is governed by the field/inductive effect.

The surrounding environments on the structure and antioxidative activity of luteolin

Luteolin is an excellent antioxidant found in a wide variety of natural foods, such as honey and pollen. In this work, the effect of the surrounding environments on the structure and antioxidative activity of luteolin was carried out using density functional theory (DFT) calculation. The studied environments are gas, benzene, chloroform, pyridine, acetonitrile, ethanol, DMSO, and water. The structure of the luteolin monomer in different environments was optimized. The hydrogen-bond was especially focused, and the antioxidative capacity of luteolin was analyzed from the thermodynamic aspect. It is found that: (1) hydrogen atom transfer (HAT) is the most thermodynamically favorable mechanism in the gas, benzene, and chloroform phases, while sequential proton loss electron transfer (SPLET) is more favorable than HAT and single electron transfer followed by proton transfer (SET-PT) in pyridine, acetonitrile, ethanol, DMSO, and water phases. (2) The 4'-OH group could more strongly participate in the free radical scavenging process of luteolin than other OH groups, while the 5-OH group is the least favored one in the studied environments. (3) The antioxidative capacity of luteolin is strongest in pyridine.

Antioxidant Activity of Quercetin and Its Glucosides from Propolis: A Theoretical Study

Among the multiple components of propolis, flavonoids contribute greatly to the antioxidant activities of propolis. Flavonoids mainly exist in the form of sugar-conjugated derivatives. Quercetin glycosides represent the predominant flavonoid fraction in propolis. In this work, density functional theory (DFT) calculations were applied to analyze the antioxidative properties of quercetin and its glucosides in the gas and in the liquid phase (ethanol, water). Three main antioxidant mechanisms, hydrogen atom transfer (HAT), single electron transfer followed by proton transfer (SET-PT) and sequential proton loss electron transfer (SPLET) were used to analyze the antioxidative capacity of the investigated compounds. Solvent effects dominantly affect SET-PT and SPLET. Thus, the thermodynamically preferred mechanism can be altered. HAT and SPLET are the thermodynamically dominant mechanisms in gas and solvent phases, respectively. Therefore, in the gas phase, the sequence of the antioxidative capacity is similar with the bond dissociation enthalpy values: quercetin > quercetin-5-O-glucoside > quercetin-7-O-glucoside > quercetin-3-O-glucoside > quercetin-3'-O-glucoside > quercetin-4'-O-glucoside. While, in the solvent phases, the sequence is similar with the proton affinity values: quercetin-4'-O-glucoside > quercetin-5-O-glucoside > quercetin > quercetin-3-O-glucoside > quercetin-7-O-glucoside > quercetin-3'-O-glucoside. OH groups in B-ring and C-ring contribute mainly to the antioxidative activities of quercetin and glucosides compared with A-ring.

Theoretical studies on the antioxidant activity of pinobanksin and its ester derivatives: Effects of the chain length and solvent

The effects of the ester group and solvent on the structure and antioxidant activity of pinobanksin were carried out using DFT calculation. First, the properties of the intramolecular hydrogen-bonds in the investigated compounds were studied. Second, the antioxidant capacities of the investigated compounds were analyzed by HAT, SET-PT and SPLET mechanisms from thermodynamic point. The conclusions are: (1) HAT mechanism is most favorable in the gas and CCl₄ phases, while SPLET mechanism is more favored in the CH₃CN and H₂O phases. In the CHCl₃ phase, the thermodynamically preferred mechanism is HAT for the 3-OH and 5-OH groups. While, HAT and SPLET mechanisms may run simultaneously for the 7-OH group. (2) Replacing the 3-OH group by ester group with different alkyl chains does not change much of the antioxidant activity of pinobanksin. (3) Besides, the 7-OH group contributes mainly to the antioxidant activities of the investigated compounds.