Green synthetic platform for the preparation of various xanthophyll esters
Xanthophylls are oxygenated derivatives of carotenoids with many positive effects on human health. Some xanthophylls exhibit superior stability and bioavailability in esterified form compared to their free form. We present an energy-efficient and environmentally friendly synthetic platform for the preparation of various xanthophyll esters, paving the way for a new line of dietary supplements with increased efficacy and stability.
Using either an eco-friendly solvent or no solvent at all, we prepared 55 model xanthophylls. The reaction between free xanthophylls and acetic anhydrides took place on a laboratory scale under mild reaction conditions. We also developed a simple process for the purification of xanthophylls, which is based either on a liquid-liquid extraction using aqueous media or on solid-phase extraction by employing exclusively green solvents.
Our synthetic platform allows for xanthophylls to be sourced from renewable natural materials. For selected model systems, it combines energy efficiency with a high reaction yield and high product purity. Another benefit of the platform is that unwanted side products are only formed in low amount.
Developed by: Laboratory for Food Chemistry.
Technology readiness level: TRL3.
Status of intellectual property:Patent granted.
Cooperation opportunities: Industrial testing and scale-up.
2023 NICKI Support Recipient
Scientific and academic papers
Metličar, V., Kranjc, K., Albreht, A. (2021). Utilization of Plant-Based Wastes for a Sustainable Preparation of Xanthophyll Esters via Acid Anhydrides Using β-Pinene as a Bio-Derived Solvent. ACS Sustainable Chem. Eng. 2021, 9, 31, 10651–10661. https://doi.org/10.1021/acssuschemeng.1c04032.