Biosynthesis and Function of Citrus Glycosylated Flavonoids

Abstract

Citrus is one of the major crops in the world with notable consumption of fresh fruit and processed fruit products. Flavonoids and flavonoid glycosides in Citrus have an impact on consumer acceptance of fruit and fruit products as well as affecting human health. Glycosylation of flavonoids is a key modification process leading to the production of the compounds actually found in plant tissues. Citrus is known for synthesis and accumulation of significant levels of flavanone and flavone glycosides. Biosynthesis of the core flavonoids and modification reactions resulting in the synthesis of flavonoid glycosides in Citrus are reviewed, with emphasis on Citrus flavonoid glycosyltransferases.