Epicatechin

Description

Epicatechin

Product Overview

Epicatechin, often written as (-)-epicatechin, is a flavanol compound with several hydroxyl groups attached to a flavan-3-ol backbone. These structural features are associated with the compound's redox activity and its role in various biochemical interactions observed in laboratory models. The molecule belongs to the broader flavonoid family of polyphenols. It occurs naturally in many plants, including cocoa beans, tea leaves, and certain fruits.

Property	Data
Compound Name	(-)-Epicatechin
PubChem CID	72276
CAS Number	490-46-0
Molecular Formula	C15H14O6
Molecular Weight	290.27 g/mol
Chemical Classification	Flavanol (Flavonoid polyphenol)
IUPAC Name	(2R,3R)-2-(3,4-dihydroxyphenyl)-3,4-dihydro-2H-chromene-3,5,7-triol
Structure
Source Database	PubChem (NCBI)

Working Mechanism

In laboratory studies, epicatechin is often examined in connection with cellular redox balance and metabolic signaling. The molecule contains phenolic groups that can participate in oxidation–reduction reactions.

It may influence oxidative stress pathways in experimental systems. Researchers sometimes explore these reactions when studying how polyphenols interact with cellular signaling networks.

Research Applications

The molecular structure of epicatechin is frequently analyzed in studies focused on polyphenol signaling and oxidative stress pathways. These investigations help scientists observe how flavonoid compounds interact with complex biochemical systems.

In vascular biology models, epicatechin has also been included in laboratory assays examining nitric oxide signaling. Such experiments explore how plant-derived flavonoids may affect enzyme systems involved in nitric oxide production.

Another area of interest involves mitochondrial signaling and energy metabolism. In controlled laboratory settings, epicatechin has been used to investigate how flavanol compounds interact with pathways involved in cellular energy metabolism.

Why Buy at PureRawz

PureRawz supplies research materials intended for analytical and laboratory use.

Orders placed through PureRawz include product documentation, secure packaging, and traceable sourcing practices. For laboratories purchasing investigational materials, orders over $100 qualify for free shipping.

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Note: PureRawz only distributes epicatechin as a research chemical. The chemical has not been approved in the United States. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approves the product for medicinal or veterinary purposes. 

Research Disclaimer

The information provided is intended for scientific reference and educational purposes only.

By placing an order, you agree to the PureRawz Terms and Conditions. If you are not satisfied with your order, please contact support@purerawz.co. 

ATTENTION: All products are FOR LABORATORY AND RESEARCH PURPOSES ONLY and NOT FOR HUMAN OR ANIMAL USE.

All experimental procedures should be conducted by qualified professionals and must comply with institutional regulatory oversight, such as IRB or IACUC guidelines, where applicable.

References

Bernatova, I. (2018). Biological activities of (-)-epicatechin and epicatechin-containing foods. Biomolecules, 8(4), 193. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30404231/

Ramirez-Sanchez, I., Taub, P. R., Ciaraldi, T. P., et al. (2013). Epicatechin enhances mitochondrial signaling and reduces oxidative stress in experimental models. American Journal of Physiology – Heart and Circulatory Physiology, 305(9), H1320–H1331. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23997137/

National Center for Biotechnology Information. (2024). Epicatechin compound summary. PubChem Database. https://pubchem.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/compound/72276

ClinicalTrials.gov. (2024). Flavonoid pharmacology research database. https://clinicaltrials.gov