Chemical Structure, Sources and Role of Bioactive Flavonoids in Cancer Prevention: A Review

There has been a major shift in the collective mindset around the world in recent decades, both in terms of food and in terms of the treatment of chronic diseases. Increasing numbers of people are choosing to prevent rather than treat, which is why many consumers are choosing plant-based diets, mainly due to their bioactive compounds. A significant case of bioactive compound is flavonoids-a wide subclass of an even wider class of phytochemicals: polyphenols. Flavonoids are a broad topic of study for researchers due to their potential in the prevention and treatment of a broad range of cancers. The aim of this review is to inform/update the reader on the diversity, accessibility and importance of flavonoids as biomolecules that are essential for optimal health, focusing on the potential of these compounds in the prevention of various types of cancer. Along with conventional sources, this review presents some of the possible methods for obtaining significant amounts of flavonoids based on a slightly different approach, genetic manipulation.

Automated summary

There has been a significant shift in the global collective mindset towards prevention rather than treatment, leading to the popularity of plant-based diets among consumers. Flavonoids, a type of bioactive compound, have garnered attention from researchers for their potential in preventing and treating various types of cancers. This review aims to inform readers about the diversity, accessibility, and importance of flavonoids as biomolecules essential for optimal health, with a focus on their potential in cancer prevention. Additionally, the review discusses alternative methods, such as genetic manipulation, for obtaining higher amounts of flavonoids.