# Robinetin **Canonical URL:** https://ingredients.hermeticasuperfoods.com/ingredients/robinetin **Data Source:** Hermetica Superfoods Ingredient Encyclopedia **Updated:** 2026-03-23 **Evidence Score:** 2 / 10 **Category:** Compound **Also Known As:** 3,7,3',4',5'-pentahydroxyflavone, robinetin, C15H10O7, pentahydroxyflavonol, 5-hydroxyfisetin, robinin flavonoid ## Overview Robinetin is a flavonoid compound found in locust tree species that demonstrates [hepatoprotective](/ingredients/condition/detox) and anti-cancer properties. The compound works by modulating triglyceride accumulation pathways and inhibiting Slug/Twist signaling cascades in cancer cells. ## 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 [acetylcholine](/ingredients/condition/cognitive)sterase inhibition (in vitro studies only) • May support healthy [glucose metabolism](/ingredients/condition/weight-management) 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) ## Mechanism of Action Robinetin reduces hepatic triglyceride accumulation through modulation of lipid [metabolism](/ingredients/condition/weight-management) 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. ## 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](/ingredients/condition/weight-management) (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](/ingredients/condition/antioxidant) 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. ## Dosage & Preparation 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. ## Safety & Drug 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](/ingredients/condition/weight-management) suggest possible interactions with hepatically-metabolized medications. Pregnant and breastfeeding women should avoid robinetin supplementation due to insufficient safety data. ## 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. ## 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. ## Synergistic Combinations Other flavonoids, quercetin, resveratrol, EGCG, curcumin ## Frequently Asked Questions ### What foods contain robinetin naturally? Robinetin is primarily found in species of Robinia trees, particularly black locust (Robinia pseudoacacia) bark and wood extracts. The compound is not commonly found in typical dietary sources or food products. ### What dosage of robinetin was effective in studies? Mouse studies used 0.025-0.05% robinetin as dietary supplementation, which improved fatty liver markers. However, no human equivalent dosing has been established through clinical trials. ### Can robinetin help with fatty liver disease? Preliminary mouse studies suggest robinetin may reduce triglyceride accumulation in fatty liver models. However, human clinical evidence is completely lacking, making efficacy claims premature. ### Is robinetin safe to take with other supplements? Safety interactions between robinetin and other supplements have not been studied. Given its effects on liver metabolism, caution is advised when combining with other hepatically-processed compounds. ### How long does robinetin take to show effects? The timeframe for robinetin effects in humans is unknown due to absence of clinical trials. Mouse studies showed metabolic improvements over several weeks of supplementation, but human timelines cannot be extrapolated. ### What is the current strength of scientific evidence for robinetin's health benefits? Most robinetin research exists at the in vitro (cell culture) or animal model (mouse) level, with no completed human clinical trials to date. While preliminary studies suggest potential benefits for metabolic dysfunction and fatty liver disease, these findings cannot yet be considered proven in humans. The anti-cancer and acetylcholinesterase inhibitory properties have only been demonstrated in laboratory settings, requiring significant further research before clinical recommendations can be made. ### Who should avoid robinetin supplementation? Robinetin has not been adequately studied in pregnant women, nursing mothers, or children, so these populations should avoid supplementation unless directed by a healthcare provider. Individuals with bleeding disorders or those taking anticoagulant medications should consult a physician before use, as flavonoids like robinetin may have mild antiplatelet effects. People with active cancer should not use robinetin based on anti-cancer claims, as interactions with cancer treatments are unknown. ### Does robinetin have better bioavailability in certain supplement forms? Research on robinetin's bioavailability and optimal supplement delivery forms is extremely limited, with most studies using pure robinetin in controlled research settings rather than commercial supplement formats. Flavonoid bioavailability in general is known to be low and highly variable depending on food matrix, gut microbiota, and individual factors, but specific data on robinetin absorption from different forms (extract, isolated compound, food-based) is not yet available. Until human pharmacokinetic studies are conducted, optimal dosing and formulation recommendations cannot be established. --- *Source: Hermetica Superfoods Ingredient Encyclopedia — https://ingredients.hermeticasuperfoods.com* *License: CC BY-NC-SA 4.0 — Attribution required. Commercial use: admin@hermeticasuperfoods.com*