In the previous article, we briefly introduced that Lutein is a natural pigment. Today, let me take everyone know Why is the Lutein so brilliant and attractive?
The unique chemical structure of Lutein not only determines its color, but also determines its physical and chemical properties. Lutein molecules have one chain of including 40 carbon atom, in which there are multiple conjugated double bonds, which make Lutein have bright color and the ability to inhibit free radicals. The chemical structure of Lutein and zeaxanthin very similar, it’s very hard to discriminate them in analysis, so many research aways report them as one substance. They have the same double-build number, but the position of one of the double bonds is different. In lutein, this double bond forms the allyl hydroxyl terminal, which makes its more chemical active .while the corresponding double bond in zeaxanthin forms a conjugated system with the adjacent straight-chain double bond. The structural formulas of Lutein and zeaxanthin details as follow:
Lutein contains C、H、O、element and the Hydroxyl group at the end of the chain. Lutein’s exist way on cytomembrane is that the hydrophobic long carbon chain is buried in the phospholipid molecular layer, while the hydrophilic hydroxyl group remains on both sides of the membrane. This position makes the Lutein and Zeaxanthin to be combined with the easily oxidized cell membrane lipids to enhance the strength of the cell membrane. In terms of stability, research shows free lutein is unstable to thermal pole. Lauric acid monolid (ML) stability is slightly stronger, while dilaurate(DL) is extremely stable to heat. The sensitivity of ML, DL to UV is worse than free Lutein. The result shows free hydroxyl group and fatty acid after esterification can improve the stability of light, this is one of the reasons why commercial Lutein products are mostly supplied in the form of Lutein Esters.
The Properties and structure of Lutein let the color so brilliant and attractive.
To be continued...... The next article will take you continue to learn more about Lutein
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