Abstract: Anthocyanin,with biological activities such as antioxidant,anti-aging,anti-cancer and cardiovascular protection and so on,is a kind of active substance widely found in plants and is a potential functional pigment.In this study,the structure and species of anthocyanins and the work and research progress of anthocyanin’ biological functions in domestic and foreign scholars were systematically elaborated in order to provide a basis and reference for further research and application of anthocyanins in food additives and pharmaceutical industry.

Key words: anthocyanins, active substance, biological function, research progress