Robinetin

Robinetin is a flavonoid compound found in locust tree species that demonstrates hepatoprotective and anti-cancer properties. The compound works by modulating triglyceride accumulation pathways and inhibiting Slug/Twist signaling cascades in cancer cells.

Origin & History

Robinetin is a pentahydroxyflavone (C₁₅H₁₀O₇), a naturally occurring flavonoid compound belonging to the flavonol class, characterized by hydroxyl groups at positions 3, 7, 3', 4', and 5'. While the primary plant sources are not specified in current research, robinetin has been isolated and studied as a purified compound rather than as part of standardized plant extracts.

Historical & Cultural Context

The research provides no information regarding robinetin's historical use in traditional medicine systems. Its therapeutic applications appear to be identified exclusively through modern phytochemical and pharmacological research rather than traditional medical practice.

Health Benefits

• May improve metabolic dysfunction and fatty liver disease (mice studies showed reduced triglyceride accumulation at 0.025-0.05% dietary supplementation - preliminary evidence only)
• Demonstrates anti-cancer properties in osteosarcoma cell lines through Slug/Twist signaling inhibition (in vitro evidence, no human trials)
• Shows HIV-1 integrase inhibitory activity and acetylcholinesterase inhibition (in vitro studies only)
• May support healthy glucose metabolism by restoring fatty acid oxidation genes like Pgc1a and Pparα (animal model evidence)
• Exhibits moderate antiproliferative effects in melanoma cells with IC₅₀ of 100-200 µM (cell culture studies, no clinical validation)

How It Works

Robinetin reduces hepatic triglyceride accumulation through modulation of lipid metabolism pathways in liver cells. The compound also inhibits the Slug/Twist signaling pathways, which are critical for cancer cell epithelial-mesenchymal transition and metastasis. These mechanisms involve direct interaction with transcription factors that regulate metabolic and oncogenic gene expression.

Scientific Research

Current evidence for robinetin consists entirely of preclinical studies with no human clinical trials, RCTs, or meta-analyses available. Key studies include Western diet mouse models showing metabolic improvements, and a 2026 publication (Eur J Pharmacol. 2026 Jan 12:1011:178432) demonstrating anti-osteosarcoma effects through the Slug/Twist pathway.

Clinical Summary

Current research on robinetin is limited to preclinical studies only. Mouse studies demonstrated reduced triglyceride accumulation in fatty liver models at 0.025-0.05% dietary supplementation levels. In vitro studies using osteosarcoma cell lines showed anti-cancer effects through Slug/Twist signaling inhibition. No human clinical trials have been conducted to establish safety or efficacy in humans.

Nutritional Profile

Robinetin (3,7,3',4',5'-pentahydroxyflavone) is a pure polyphenolic flavonoid compound, not a whole food ingredient, therefore it has no macronutrient, vitamin, mineral, or fiber profile. Molecular weight: 302.24 g/mol. Structural classification: flavonol subclass, characterized by a 3-hydroxyflavone backbone with five hydroxyl groups at positions 3, 7, 3', 4', and 5'. Naturally occurring in black locust (Robinia pseudoacacia) heartwood, Robinia flowers, and Distemonanthus benthamianus wood. Bioactive compound concentration in source plants: trace amounts in wood extracts, typically isolated via chromatographic purification. Bioavailability is expected to follow general flavonoid absorption patterns: intestinal uptake via passive diffusion and active transport, subject to phase II metabolism (glucuronidation, sulfation, methylation) in intestinal epithelium and liver, with estimated oral bioavailability likely below 10% consistent with other flavonols. Plasma half-life and pharmacokinetic data in humans are not established. Demonstrates potent antioxidant activity attributable to its pentahydroxylated structure, with DPPH radical scavenging capacity reported as superior to quercetin in some in vitro assays. No caloric value, protein, fat, or carbohydrate content applicable as it is studied as an isolated bioactive compound, not a dietary source.

Preparation & Dosage

In animal studies: 0.025-0.05% dietary supplementation over 12 weeks. In cell culture: 4-200 µM concentrations, with effective doses typically 50-100 µM. Topical application in mice: 2.5 µmol. No human dosage data exists. Consult a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement.

Synergy & Pairings

Other flavonoids, quercetin, resveratrol, EGCG, curcumin

Safety & Interactions

Safety data for robinetin supplementation in humans is currently unavailable due to lack of clinical studies. Potential drug interactions have not been systematically evaluated. The compound's effects on liver metabolism suggest possible interactions with hepatically-metabolized medications. Pregnant and breastfeeding women should avoid robinetin supplementation due to insufficient safety data.