theaflavin

Theaflavin is a naturally occurring polyphenolic compound belonging to the biflavonoid class, formed during the oxidation ("fermentation") of catechins in black tea leaves. Its core structure is a benzotropolone derivative, which is responsible for its potent antioxidant activity. Theaflavin displays a range of biological effects including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antineoplastic (anticancer), cardiovascular-protective, and antimicrobial actions. Mechanistically, it acts by scavenging free radicals, modulating cellular signaling pathways such as NF-κB and MAPK, and inhibiting pro-inflammatory enzymes like cyclooxygenase and lipoxygenase. It is recognized primarily as a plant metabolite and is not an approved pharmaceutical agent for any indication.

Other names

1,8-Bis((2R,3R)-3,5,7-trihydroxy-2H-1-benzopyran-2-yl)-3,4,6-trihydroxy-5H-benzocyclohepten-5-one3,4,5-trihydroxy-1,8-bis[(2R,3R)-3,5,7-trihydroxy-3,4-dihydro-2H-chromen-2-yl]benzo[7]annulen-6-one3,4,6-trihydroxy-1,8-bis((2R,3R)-3,5,7-trihydroxychroman-2-yl)-5H-benzo[7]annulen-5-onetheaflavineCAS 4670-05-7CAS4670-05-7CAS-4670-05-7UNII 1IA46M0D13UNII1IA46M0D13UNII-1IA46M0D13CHEBI:136609HMDB0005788HMDB-0005788HMDB 0005788Nikkaji Number J277.684G