Definition
Morin is a naturally occurring flavonol, a subclass of flavonoids, with the chemical name 2′,4′,5,7‑tetrahydroxyflavone. Its molecular formula is C₁₅H₁₀O₇.
Overview
Morin is a yellow, crystalline solid that exhibits limited solubility in water but dissolves readily in polar organic solvents such as ethanol, methanol, and dimethyl sulfoxide. It is found in various plant species, notably in the bark of the white mulberry (Morus alba), the leaves of Osage orange (Maclura pomifera), and in the heartwood of the timber tree Old Fustic (Maclura tinctoria). In plants, morin contributes to UV protection, pigmentation, and defense against pathogens. Commercially, morin is employed as a standard in analytical chemistry for flavonoid quantification, as a fluorescent probe in microscopy, and as a research tool for studying antioxidant and metal‑chelating mechanisms.
Etymology/Origin
The name “morin” is derived from the genus Morus (mulberry), from which the compound was first isolated in the late 19th century. The suffix “‑in” follows the conventional naming pattern for natural products isolated from plants.
Characteristics
| Property | Details |
|---|---|
| Chemical structure | A flavone backbone with hydroxyl groups at positions 2′, 4′, 5, and 7. |
| Molecular weight | 302.24 g·mol⁻¹ |
| Physical appearance | Yellow crystalline solid. |
| Solubility | Poor in water (≈0.1 mg L⁻¹ at 25 °C); soluble in ethanol, methanol, DMSO, and acetone. |
| Spectral properties | UV–Vis absorption maxima near 260 nm and 350 nm; exhibits blue‑green fluorescence under UV excitation. |
| Biological activity | Demonstrates antioxidant activity by scavenging free radicals; chelates transition metal ions (e.g., Fe³⁺, Cu²⁺); modest anti‑inflammatory and antimicrobial effects reported in vitro. |
| Metabolism | In mammals, metabolized primarily through phase‑II conjugation (glucuronidation and sulfation) and excreted in urine. |
Related Topics
- Flavonoids – a broad class of polyphenolic compounds with diverse biological functions.
- Flavonols – a subclass of flavonoids that includes quercetin, kaempferol, and myricetin.
- Antioxidants – substances that inhibit oxidation and neutralize free radicals.
- Metal chelation – the ability of certain molecules to bind metal ions, influencing metal availability and oxidative processes.
- Mulberry (Morus spp.) – the plant genus associated with the original isolation of morin.
Note: The above information reflects the current understanding of morin as documented in peer‑reviewed scientific literature and reputable chemical databases.