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The chemical diversity and biological activities of phytoalexins

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Abstract

Phytoalexins are low molecular weight antimicrobial compounds that are produced by plants as a response to biotic and abiotic stresses. They take part in an intricate defense system which enables plants to control invading microorganisms. Phytoalexins are only one component of the complex mechanisms for disease resistance in plants, but display a wide range of activities that promote the health of humans. In this review the chemical structures of phytoalexins, the role they play in protecting plants from microbial infection and their application in promoting human health in general are discussed.

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Abbreviations

3-DOA:

3-Deoxyanthocyanins

ERs:

Estrogen receptors

GSH:

Glutathione

LDL:

Low density lipoprotein

ROS:

Reactive oxygen species

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Acknowledgements

I would like to thank Professor Kaleab Asres for his invaluable comments and encouragements to make this paper adequate. The author did not receive any funding from any organization.

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  1. Department of Pharmacognosy, School of Pharmacy, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Gondar, P.O. Box 196, Azezo, Gondar, Ethiopia

    Gizachew Kassahun Bizuneh

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Correspondence to Gizachew Kassahun Bizuneh.

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Gizachew Kassahun Bizuneh has no conflict of interest.

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Bizuneh, G.K. The chemical diversity and biological activities of phytoalexins. ADV TRADIT MED (ADTM) 21, 31–43 (2021). https://doi.org/10.1007/s13596-020-00442-w

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