Structural Abundance and Biological Significance of Lignans and Related Plant Phenylpropanoids

Abstract

The article reviews chemical and biological properties of lignans and related phenylpropanoids. Their rich structural variability results from their biogenesis and the dominant position among secondary plant metabolites. The information on lignans is based on relevant literature and own experimental results. The chemo-ecological role of lignans in plants as well as various pharmacological effects and utilisation of phenylpropanoids as functional nutrient additives or as established pharmaceuticals are emphasized.