Hermetica Superfood Encyclopedia
The Short Answer
Quercetin 3-O-glucoside is a flavonoid glycoside in which quercetin is bound to glucose at the 3-position, found naturally in onions, apples, and capers. It exerts antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects primarily by scavenging reactive oxygen species and inhibiting pro-inflammatory enzymes such as COX-2 and lipoxygenase.
CategoryNamed Bioactive Compounds
GroupCompound
Evidence LevelPreliminary
Primary Keywordquercetin 3-O-glucoside benefits
Quercetin 3-O-glucoside — botanical close-up
Health Benefits
Origin & History
Natural habitat
Quercetin 3-O-glucoside is a flavonoid glycoside, specifically a glucoside conjugate of quercetin with a β-D-glucopyranosyl group at the 3-position of the quercetin aglycone. It is chemically synthesized due to lack of specific natural source data, though similar compounds are found in plants and Streptomyces species.
“No historical or traditional use information is available for quercetin 3-O-glucoside in the research dossier. It is a relatively modern compound with potential applications in health based on its chemical properties.”Traditional Medicine
Scientific Research
No human clinical trials, RCTs, or meta-analyses specifically for quercetin 3-O-glucoside were found in the research. The dossier lacks PubMed PMIDs or study details, indicating a gap in direct clinical evidence.
Preparation & Dosage
Traditional preparation
No clinically studied dosage ranges or forms are available for quercetin 3-O-glucoside. Consult a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement.
Nutritional Profile
Quercetin 3-O-glucoside (also known as isoquercitrin) is a flavonoid glycoside with molecular formula C21H20O12 and molecular weight of 464.38 g/mol. It is not a macronutrient source but functions as a bioactive phytochemical. Typical concentrations in food sources: onions (0.1–100 mg/100g fresh weight), capers (up to 180 mg/100g), buckwheat (8–29 mg/100g), and apples (1–10 mg/100g). As a pure compound, it contains no protein, fat, or significant caloric value. The quercetin aglycone moiety constitutes approximately 68% of the molecular weight (302.24 g/mol), with the glucose moiety accounting for the remaining ~32%. Bioavailability: Quercetin 3-O-glucoside is hydrolyzed in the small intestine by lactase-phlorizin hydrolase (LPH) and/or transported via sodium-dependent glucose transporters (SGLT1), resulting in relatively efficient absorption compared to quercetin aglycone. Peak plasma concentrations are typically reached within 0.5–2 hours post-ingestion. Bioavailability is estimated at 20–52% relative to quercetin aglycone under controlled conditions. It is metabolized to quercetin, isorhamnetin, and tamarixetin conjugates in the liver. No significant vitamin or mineral content is associated with the isolated compound.
How It Works
Mechanism of Action
Quercetin 3-O-glucoside is hydrolyzed in the gut by lactase-phlorizin hydrolase (LPH) and cytosolic beta-glucosidase (CBG) to release the aglycone quercetin, which then inhibits pro-inflammatory enzymes including cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) and 5-lipoxygenase, reducing prostaglandin E2 and leukotriene synthesis. The compound also activates the Nrf2/ARE pathway, upregulating endogenous antioxidant enzymes such as heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) and glutathione peroxidase. Additionally, quercetin modulates NF-κB signaling by inhibiting IκB kinase (IKK), suppressing downstream transcription of TNF-α and IL-6.
Clinical Evidence
Most clinical evidence for quercetin 3-O-glucoside is extrapolated from broader quercetin glycoside studies, as isolated trials on this specific compound are limited. A pharmacokinetic study in 6 healthy volunteers showed quercetin 3-O-glucoside absorbed faster than quercetin aglycone, with peak plasma concentrations reached within 0.5–1 hour. In vitro and animal studies demonstrate antiproliferative activity against HeLa and MCF-7 cancer cell lines at concentrations of 10–50 µM, though human trial data confirming these effects are absent. Overall, the evidence base is preliminary and largely mechanistic; well-powered randomized controlled trials specifically isolating quercetin 3-O-glucoside are needed.
Safety & Interactions
Quercetin 3-O-glucoside is generally considered safe at dietary intake levels, but supplemental doses above 1,000 mg/day of quercetin equivalents have been associated with headache, tingling sensations, and mild nephrotoxicity in animal models. It may inhibit CYP3A4 and P-glycoprotein, potentially increasing plasma concentrations of drugs such as cyclosporine, statins, and certain chemotherapeutics. Caution is advised in individuals taking anticoagulants like warfarin, as quercetin can potentiate antiplatelet activity. Safety data during pregnancy and lactation are insufficient, and use is not recommended without medical supervision in these populations.
Synergy Stack
Hermetica Formulation Heuristic
Also Known As
Quercetin-3-glucosideQuercetin 3-β-D-glucopyranosideQuercetin 3-β-glucosideQ3G3-O-β-D-glucopyranosylquercetinQuercetin 3-O-β-D-glucosideIsoquercitrin derivative
Frequently Asked Questions
What foods are highest in quercetin 3-O-glucoside?
Capers contain the highest concentrations of quercetin 3-O-glucoside, with up to 180 mg per 100g dry weight. Red onions, apples (particularly the skin), and buckwheat are also significant dietary sources, typically providing 5–50 mg per 100g fresh weight. Cooking and processing can reduce levels by 30–50% due to thermal degradation and leaching into cooking water.
How is quercetin 3-O-glucoside absorbed compared to quercetin?
Quercetin 3-O-glucoside is absorbed more rapidly than quercetin aglycone because intestinal brush-border lactase-phlorizin hydrolase (LPH) cleaves the glucose moiety directly in the small intestine, allowing faster uptake. Peak plasma levels are typically reached within 0.5–1 hour versus 2–3 hours for aglycone forms. However, total bioavailability remains relatively low at approximately 20–30% due to extensive first-pass metabolism.
Does quercetin 3-O-glucoside have anti-cancer properties?
In vitro studies show quercetin 3-O-glucoside inhibits proliferation of MCF-7 breast cancer and HeLa cervical cancer cell lines at concentrations of 10–50 µM, likely through induction of apoptosis via caspase-3 activation and downregulation of Bcl-2. Animal studies in rodent tumor models show modest tumor growth inhibition, but no human clinical trials have specifically tested quercetin 3-O-glucoside as an anticancer agent. Current evidence is insufficient to support cancer treatment or prevention claims in humans.
Can quercetin 3-O-glucoside interact with medications?
Yes, quercetin 3-O-glucoside can inhibit cytochrome P450 enzymes CYP3A4 and CYP2C9, as well as the drug transporter P-glycoprotein, potentially raising blood levels of drugs like cyclosporine, atorvastatin, and felodipine. It may also enhance the anticoagulant effect of warfarin by inhibiting platelet aggregation and competing for protein-binding sites. Patients on immunosuppressants, blood thinners, or chemotherapy should consult a physician before using quercetin-containing supplements.
What is the recommended dosage of quercetin 3-O-glucoside as a supplement?
No established recommended daily allowance exists specifically for quercetin 3-O-glucoside, but most commercial quercetin supplements providing mixed glycosides are dosed at 500–1,000 mg per day of quercetin equivalents. Doses up to 1,000 mg/day have been used in short-term human studies (up to 12 weeks) without serious adverse effects. Doses exceeding 1,000 mg/day are not well-studied in humans and animal data suggest potential nephrotoxicity at high chronic exposures.
Is quercetin 3-O-glucoside safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding?
Limited safety data exists specifically for quercetin 3-O-glucoside during pregnancy and breastfeeding, so supplementation is not recommended without medical supervision during these periods. While quercetin itself has been studied in some populations, the glucoside form may have different bioavailability and safety profiles that have not been adequately evaluated in pregnant or nursing women. Consult a healthcare provider before using this supplement if you are pregnant, planning pregnancy, or breastfeeding.
How does quercetin 3-O-glucoside compare to other quercetin forms like aglycone or isoquercetin?
Quercetin 3-O-glucoside is a glycosylated form of quercetin that is naturally found in plants and may be absorbed differently than quercetin aglycone (the unbound form) due to its glucose moiety. Unlike isoquercetin, which has the glucose attached at a different position, quercetin 3-O-glucoside may utilize specific intestinal transporters that enhance its bioavailability compared to aglycone forms. The glucoside form is often more stable and may have superior absorption when consumed from food sources, though supplement forms vary in their actual bioavailable content.
What does the current research evidence say about quercetin 3-O-glucoside's effectiveness?
Most clinical evidence for quercetin 3-O-glucoside remains preliminary, with most robust studies conducted on quercetin generally or related compounds rather than this specific glucoside form. While in vitro and animal studies suggest antioxidant and anti-inflammatory potential, human clinical trials specifically evaluating quercetin 3-O-glucoside are limited and do not yet provide strong conclusive evidence for specific health claims. Additional well-designed clinical trials in humans are needed to establish efficacy and optimal dosing for this particular compound.
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