Synthetic Route to Produce Flavonoids: A Pathway towards Tuberculosis and Chikungunya Treatment
A groundbreaking development in the field of medicinal chemistry has recently gained considerable attention. Scientists from the Agharkar Research Institute (ARI), Pune, a prestigious autonomous institute under the Department of Science and Technology, Government of India, have successfully manufactured flavonoid molecules related to the treatment of debilitating diseases like tuberculosis and chikungunya.
Groundbreaking Synthesis Achievements
The scientists are being hailed for their ability to synthesize three types of flavonoid molecules namely rugosa flavonoids, podocare flavone and isoflavone via a lab-based procedure, a feat previously unheard of. Traditionally, these compounds were exclusively derived from natural plant sources and are recognized for their potential to counteract tuberculosis and chikungunya.
Remarkable Properties of Flavonoids
Flavonoids, a subset of the polyphenol class of plant chemicals—phytonutrients—are ubiquitous in almost all fruits and vegetables. These compounds, along with organic pigments called carotenoids, gift the vibrant hues to our beloved produce. Historically, the Chinese and Ayurvedic medicinal systems immensely valued these polyphenols, associating them with a plethora of health benefits including skin protection, improved brain function, blood sugar control, and regulation of blood pressure. Packed with potent antioxidants, these flavonoids possess significant anti-inflammatory, immune-boosting properties. Incorporating a flavonoid-rich diet is beneficial for safeguarding against various diseases attacking the heart, liver, kidney, and brain, as well as other infectious diseases.
Significance of the Flavonoid Synthesis
This research breakthrough holds considerable implications for the health sector:
Availability: The synthetic process will guarantee the year-round availability of these essential flavonoids, decoupling their production from the whims of natural plant growth cycles.
Uniformity: Natural products often display variability in terms of their chemical composition, arising from seasonal, geographical, and species-related differences. Synthetic counterparts, on the other hand, offer a uniform structure and medicinal properties akin to their natural versions.
Environmentally friendly: Opting for lab-derived flavonoids can abate the heavy environmental cost of over-harvesting medicinal plants.
Cost-effective: The lab-based method of flavonoid production simplifies the process while rendering it cost-efficient.
Additional Applications of Flavonoids
Beyond their disease-fighting capabilities, these synthetic flavonoids hold promise in easing the discomforts experienced during the premenopausal stage in women, owing to their molecular similarity with the female hormone 17-beta-estradiol. This estrogen steroid hormone plays an instrumental role in controlling the estrous and menstrual reproductive cycles in females. As per preliminary research indicators and computational analysis, these molecules have demonstrated potential for inhibiting COVID-19 by targeting the spike protein and proteases (enzymes that catalyze the breakdown of proteins). Given their immunity-boosting property, a diet rich in flavonoids is recommended for gaining immunity against COVID-19.
The Agharkar Research Institute’s groundbreaking work in creating a synthetic route to produce flavonoids in the lab signals a significant stride in advancing both science and healthcare. The implications of this work are vast, ranging from improving the treatment of diseases like tuberculosis and chikungunya, enhancing women’s health, and even contributing to our battle against the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.
