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Biological effect of

polyphenols

 The ring structure of polyphenols determines
their lipophilic properties, especially in the

case of flavonoids.

 Hydrophobic antioxidants play a protective
role for lipid membranes. Polyphenols
can scavenge reactive oxygen species (ROS) and

inactivate organic radicals, and are able to complex
metal ions which catalyse oxidation reactions.

 Hydrophilic antioxidants protect against
oxidative structure damage to the cytoplasm,
inside cell organelles, and in the extracellular
fluid.

 Among hydrophilic antioxidants, ascorbate
(vitamin C) and phenolic acids can be found.

They are hydrophilic to an extent and can also be
effective antioxidants in an aqueous phase, e.g.,
caffeic acid