C15H10O7

C15H10O7 is the molecular formula most commonly associated with quercetin, a widely distributed flavonol in the plant kingdom. Quercetin is a polyphenolic compound belonging to the flavonoid class and is a component of many fruits, vegetables, leaves, and grains. The formula reflects its structure: a flavonol skeleton with five hydroxyl groups (at positions 3, 5, 7, 3′, and 4′), a carbonyl group in the central ring, and an ether oxygen in the heterocycle, giving seven oxygen atoms in total.

Quercetin properties include being typically a yellow crystalline solid with relatively low water solubility but higher solubility in organic solvents such as ethanol or DMSO. It absorbs UV light, contributing to the color of plants.

Occurrence and extraction: Common dietary sources include onions, apples, berries, and tea. It is often present as glycoside forms (e.g., quercetin-3-O-rutinoside) in foods and can be liberated by hydrolysis.

Applications and research: Quercetin is studied for antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and potential cardioprotective effects; however, evidence from human trials is mixed. It is also used as a standard reference compound in analytical chemistry and is sold as a dietary supplement.

Safety: In typical dietary amounts, quercetin is considered safe; high-dose supplementation can cause adverse effects or interact with certain medications.

See also: other flavonoids such as kaempferol (C15H10O6) and myricetin (C15H12O8).