Lignans of Sesame (Sesamum indicum L.): A Comprehensive Review

Major lignans of sesame sesamin and sesamolin are benzodioxol--substituted furofurans. Sesamol, sesaminol, its epimers, episesamin transformation products found in processed products. Synthetic routes to all known but only sesamol is synthesized industrially. Biosynthesis furofuran begins with the dimerization coniferyl alcohol, followed by formation dioxoles, oxidation, glycosylation. Most genes lignan pathway have been identified inheritance content poorly understood. Health-promoting properties make attractive components functional food. Lignans enhance efficiency insecticides possess antifeedant activity, their biological function plants remains hypothetical. In this work, extensive literature including historical texts reviewed, controversial issues critically examined, errors perpetuated corrected. The following aspects covered: chemical transformations lignans; analysis, purification, total synthesis; occurrence Seseamum indicum related plants; biosynthesis genetics; activities; health-promoting properties; functions. Finally, improvement seeds breeding biotechnology potential hairy roots for manufacturing vitro outlined.