Summary
This narrative review synthesises knowledge on the chemical diversity and biological significance of phenylpropanoid-derived natural products, particularly flavonoids and stilbenoids. The authors examine how these compounds arise through plant evolution, their importance in plant physiology and stress responses, and emerging evidence for their effects on human health and antimicrobial activity. The review establishes the foundation for understanding how biotechnological approaches might enhance production of these bioactive compounds in plants and microbial systems.
Regional applicability
The review is global in scope and discusses fundamental plant biochemistry and human health effects applicable universally, including to United Kingdom agriculture and nutrition. Transferability to UK farming and food production depends on subsequent application of biotechnological tools discussed in Part II of this review series.
Key measures
Chemical diversity of phenylpropanoids; biosynthetic pathways; modes of action on human health and physiology; antimicrobial and plant defence properties
Outcomes reported
The paper reviews the chemical diversity, biosynthetic origins, and biological properties of phenylpropanoid-derived compounds, particularly flavonoids and stilbenoids. It examines their roles in plant growth, stress responses, agricultural productivity, human health effects, and antimicrobial activity.
Topic tags
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