New Functions for Bioactive Flavonoids in Plants and Mammals

Our research indicates that specific plant metabolites, flavonoids, are biologically active in plants and mammals. Flavonoids influence plant growth and development and modulate blood vessel formation (angiogenesis) in mammals. We seek to understand how flavonoids work and determine their cellular targets. This lack of understanding of their functions creates a barrier to harnessing flavonoids. Molecules that control plant shape may affect plant yield or enable more efficient root systems. Molecules inhibiting angiogenesis could combat tumours whereas molecules promoting angiogenesis may positively impact on cardiovascular disease. Our experiments will identify new functional roles for flavonoids and determine their interacting partners.