Final Study Guide Flashcards
Define a secondary metabolite.
Compounds that are not directly involved in thr growth, reproduciton or photosynthesis of plants. They are derived from primary metabolites. They have a vast array of functions and are generally associated with defense from other organisms, attraction of pollinators and other symbiotes, and protection from environmental factors such as UV radiation.
Simple phenolic.
1 benzene ring with an OH group. Varying side groups.
Tannin.
Phenolic acid with ester linkages to central glucose.
Astringents!
Coumarin.
Derivatives of alpha-pyrone.
“Fresh-cut grass smell.”
Furanocoumarins.
A coumarin with an attached 5-member ring with an oxygen (furano group).
Responsible for “grapefruit juice effect.”
Chromones.
Small phenolic compound.
Furanochromone.
Chromone with furano group.
Anthraquinone.
Irritant laxative agents.
Lignans.
Two phenylpropene derivative units.
Phenolic compounds. In intestines, we change flax lignan into phytoestrongens.
Some are GABA-nergic psychoactive compound.
Stilbene.
Example: Resveratrol.
Flavanoid.
“3-ring circus.”
Which classes of phenolic chemical structures discussed are volatile?
Simple phenolics, coumarins, furanocoumarins, chromones, furanochromones. (The little tiny guys). Volatile because they are low molecular weight.
What is a glycoside?
A sugar moiety bound to a functional group.
“Molecule with a a sugar attached.”
Glycone= the sugar portion (moiety).
Aglycone= the functional group.
Define glycone and aglycone.
Glycone: The sugar moiety portion of a glycoside.
Aglycone: The functional group portion of a glycoside.
How are anthraquinones used medicinally?
As irritant laxatives.
Anthocyanins vs. anthocyanidins vs. proanthocyanidins.
Anthocyanidin: pH dependent colorful pigments.
Anthocyanins: glycosides of anthocyanidins.
Proanthocyanidins: polymers of flavan-3-ol units. Have properties like tannins (are condensed tannins).
Which classes of phenolic compounds act as phytoestrogens?
Lignans (e.g. flax).
Isoflavones (e.g. soy).
Why do phenolic compounds have anti-oxidant properties?
Resonance stabilization of ring structures with their double bonds.
Carbon # in monoterpene, sesquiterpene, diterpene, triterpene, tetraterpene?
Mono: 10
Sesqui: 15
Di: 20
Tri: 30
Tetra: 40
What class of terpenes are volatile?
Monoterpenes.
What is a resin?
A matrix of di- and tri-terpenes plus volatile constituents.
The matrix holds the essential oil. Plants release them in response to injury or for protection.
Used often in respiratory medicine: anti-microbial and somewhat irritant.
Some also have polysaccharides in their matrix (gum resins).
Define amphipathic.
Compound with both a hydrophobic and hydrophilic head.
Can emulsify substances: grabs both water and oil.
What is a saponin?
Terpene molecules with 2 or more attached sugar units. They are amphipathic.
Sugar unit is hydrophilic. Other end (terpene) is lipophilic.
What are the basic properties of an alkaloid?
Alkaline substances that contain a nitrogen. Not amino acids.
These are classified according to structure rather than function.
How are alkaloids classified? (Along with all other chemical substances).
According to their structure, not function.
Define mucilage.
They have polysaccharides, which are slimey and soothing.
Prepared with cold infusion.
E.g. Slippery elm, marshmallow, glycerrhiza.
What are the effects of bitters on the function of the GI tract?
Increase acid secretion, saliva production, Ghrelin secretion, CCK, and gut motility.
What chemical compound is the bitter principle in Gentiana lutea?
Iridoid glycoside. (Secoiridoid glycoside).
What compound is largely responsible for the antispasmotic action of carminatives?
Volatile oils (monoterpenes).
Terpenes are small and can move through the membranes.
