Plant Phenolics

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Abstract
This chapter focuses on some of the major classes of phenolics found in vascular plants, with exception of the flavonoids which have been described comprehensively elsewhere. It describes what is understood about the biosynthetic pathways of phenolic antioxidants, in terms of enzymes, intermediates, and their compartmentation. The chapter summarizes their understanding regarding known or possible functions and their contemplated roles as antioxidants in higher plants. Terrestrial vascular plants synthesize a structurally, biogenetically diverse array of phenolic products that are compartmentalized or accumulate in specific tissues or organs. The polymers formed from plant phenolics in the cell wall provide structural support and form barriers to prevent moisture loss/diffusion and pathogen encroachment. The phenols function in defense mechanisms that depend on IJV protectant, antifungal, antiviral, antibacterial, antifeedant, and antimitotic properties, and also function in signal induction and transduction and in morphogenesis. Secondary plant metabolites represent a complex, diversity of organic products.