Cyanidin 3‐o‐galactoside: A natural compound with multiple health benefits

Abstract

Cyanidin 3‐O‐galactoside (Cy3Gal) is one of the most widespread anthocyanins that pos-itively impacts the health of animals and humans. Since it is available from a wide range of natural sources, such as fruits (apples and berries in particular), substantial studies were performed to in-vestigate its biosynthesis, chemical stability, natural occurrences and content, extraction methods, physiological functions, as well as potential applications. In this review, we focus on presenting the previous studies on the abovementioned aspects of Cy3Gal. As a conclusion, Cy3Gal shares a com-mon biosynthesis pathway and analogous stability with other anthocyanins. Galactosyltransferase utilizing uridine diphosphate galactose (UDP‐galactose) and cyanidin as substrates is unique for Cy3Gal biosynthesis. Extraction employing different methods reveals chokeberry as the most prac-tical natural source for mass‐production of this compound. The antioxidant properties and other health effects, including anti‐inflammatory, anticancer, antidiabetic, anti‐toxicity, cardiovascular, and nervous protective capacities, are highlighted in purified Cy3Gal and in its combination with other polyphenols. These unique properties of Cy3Gal are discussed and compared with other an-thocyanins with related structure for an in‐depth evaluation of its potential value as food additives or health supplement. Emphasis is laid on the description of its physiological functions confirmed via various approaches.