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Bixin from Bixa orellana L.: Analytical Method Validation, Physicochemical Characterization, and Selective Antifungal Activity against Candida spp.

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: High Resolution Image Download MS PowerPoint Slide Bixin is a lipophilic apocarotenoid abundant in the aril of Bixa orellana L. seeds. Widely used as a natural colorant in food, textile, and cosmetic industries, its pharmacological potential remains underexplored. This study aimed to extract and purify bixin, characterize its physicochemical properties, develop and validate an HPLC method for quantification, and evaluate its antifungal activity, cytotoxicity, and selectivity in vitro . Extraction was performed by Soxhlet using hexane and chloroform, followed by recrystallization in acetone. Characterization (TG/DTA, FTIR, and 1 H NMR) confirmed predominance of the 9’- cis isomer. The HPLC method (λ=470 nm) was validated per ICH Q2(R2), showing specificity, linearity (R 2 = 0.9993), low LOD/LOQ (0.638 and 1.934 μg mL –1 ), and high precision and accuracy (RSD < 2%; recovery 99.4–100.8%). Antifungal assays against eight Candida strains revealed moderate activity, with MICs from 2 to 256 μg mL –1 . The best results were observed for C. glabrata and C. tropicalis (MIC = 2 and 4 μg mL –1 ). Bixin also inhibited virulence factors in C. albicans Cytotoxicity on Vero cells showed a CC 50 of 30.71 μg mL –1, with selectivity indices of 15.36 and 7.68 for C. glabrata and C. tropicalis, respectively. These results support bixin’s potential as a natural antifungal agent.

Source: ACS Omega

DOI: 10.1021/acsomega.5c04986