peonidin

Peonidin is an anthocyanidin, a type of flavonoid pigment, and is an O-methylated derivative of cyanidin. In plants, peonidin occurs mainly as glycosides, such as peonidin-3-glucoside, and is found in various red to purple tissues, including grape skins, berries, and some flowers.

The color produced by peonidin pigments ranges from red to magenta and is highly sensitive to pH, metal ions, and copigmentation. In neutral or alkaline conditions, the pigments are less stable and can degrade or undergo structural changes. As a pigment, peonidin contributes to the characteristic hues of many plant tissues and interacts with other pigments to influence overall coloration.

Biosynthesis occurs via the plant anthocyanin pathway. Cyanidin is methylated by O-methyltransferases to yield peonidin, and subsequent glycosylation and acylation generate the abundant pigment forms used by plants. The exact hue and stability depend on the pattern of glycosylation and acylation, as well as the cellular environment.

Applications and research: Peonidin-containing pigments contribute to the coloration of many fruits and flowers and are studied as natural food colorants. They are also investigated for potential antioxidant activity and health-related effects, though bioavailability and in vivo impact vary considerably among compounds and foods.

See also: Anthocyanidin, Cyanidin, Anthocyanin, Flavonoid.