Studies on flavonoid metabolism. Biosynthesis of (+)-[14C]catechin by the plant Uncaria gambir Roxb

Abstract

1. The formation of (+)-[14C]catechin has been demonstrated in Uncaria gambir after the administration of 14CO2 and [1−14C]acetate. 2. By alkaline degradation to phloroglucinol and protocatechuic acid it has been shown that administration of 14CO2 resulted in equal labelling of the A and B rings of catechin, whereas [1−14C]-acetate gave rise to labelling largely in the A ring. 3. Incorporation of 14C from both 14CO2 and [1−14C]acetate into (+)-catechin was greater in young than in older leaves.