Localization and quantitative determination of catechins and proanthocyanidins in the phloem of elm and cherry

The localization of catechins and proanthocyanidins in the phloem of elm (Ulmus minor Mill.) and cherry (Prunus avium L.) was determined histochemically by use of 4-dimethylaminocinnamaldehyde (DMACA) reagent. The two tree species showed a characteristic distribution of these phenols, which were most abundant in the phloem rays of cherry, but were largely confined to upright parenchyma cells of elm. Quantitative determination and qualitative separation of catechins and proanthocyanidins were performed using HPLC-CRD (chemical reaction detection), with 4-dimethylaminocinnamaldehyde as the staining reagent. Up to 14 different catechins and proanthocyanidins were found in both species.