Biomaterials, Biodegradables and Biomimetics Research Group

Papers in Scientific Journals

Exploiting Catharanthus roseus roots: source of antioxidants

Abstract

Catharanthus roseus is among the most important medicinal plants, mainly due to its anticancer alkaloids.

Phenolics and organic acids were studied in this plant’s roots, using HPLC-MS and HPLC-UV, respectively. Neither phenolic acids nor flavonoids could be identified, but an organic acid profile composed by oxalic, cis-aconitic, citric, pyruvic, malic and fumaric acids was found. Concerning organic acids quantification, roots revealed to be much richer in these compounds than other plant parts previously described, surpassing 187 g/kg.

Antioxidant activity of the roots was evaluated using representative radicals: DPPH, superoxide radical and nitric oxide radical. The results indicate a strong anti-radical activity, surpassing that of leaves, petals, stems and seeds, previously reported. Synergistic studies proved the contribution of organic acids to the displayed effect, although other compounds not determined herein might be responsible for part of the activity.

The results indicate that C. roseus roots could be exploited as a source of health promoting antioxidants to be used by both food and pharmaceutical industries, taking advantage of the alkaloid extraction wastes.

Journal
Food Chemistry
Volume
121
Pagination
56-61
Keywords
Antioxidant activity, Catharanthus roseus, Organic acids, Roots
Rights
Restricted Access
Peer Reviewed
Yes
Status
published
Year of Publication
2010
Date Published
2010-08-17
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