Comparison of the protective effect of various flavonoids against lipid peroxidation of erythrocyte membranes (induced by cumene hydroperoxide).

An experimental model system was designed to test the antioxidant effects of various pharmacologic compounds. Cumene hydroperoxide induces in vitro the peroxidation of erythrocyte membrane and the subsequent formation of malonaldehyde and fluorescent lipid-soluble products. The protective effect of various flavonoids was compared to that of butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT). Protective effect was evaluated by the inhibition of peroxidation product formation. In this experimental system, quercetin and catechin showed a protective effect against lipid peroxidation as high as that of BHT. Morin, rutin, trihydroxyethylrutin, and naringin were active but to a lesser degree, whereas flavone was devoid of antioxidant activity.