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"Polyphenols are a unique group of phytochemicals that are present in all fruits, vegetables, and other plant products. They are classified according to their chemical structure, which contains multiple linked phenol groups and they have powerful antioxidant properties. There is a great variety of biological systems that can be positively modified by polyphenols in foods and dietary supplements. As the major focus on polyphenols is their biomodification of human physiology the functional mechanisms of action, positive or negative are critical. These can range from being antioxidants that concentrate in specific locations or cell types as protection to bioregulators of enzymes and DNA. Understanding the mechanisms of action, expecially protection from oxidative damage, is essential for researchers and physicians conducting clinical studies on the application of polyphenols to a wide variety of diseases and physiological dysfunctions."-- Provided by publisher.