Formulation of Ready-to-Use Broccoli Extracts Rich in Polyphenols and Glucosinolates Using Natural Deep Eutectic...

Area of Science:

• Agricultural Chemistry
• Phytochemistry
• Green Chemistry

Background:

• Broccoli is a valuable source of health-promoting polyphenols and glucosinolates.
• Conventional extraction methods often face limitations in efficiency and compound preservation.
• Natural Deep Eutectic Solvents (NADESs) are emerging as eco-friendly alternatives for plant extract preparation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To prepare and characterize broccoli extracts using various biocompatible betaine-based NADESs.
• To evaluate the polyphenol and glucosinolate content, antioxidant capacity, and stability of NADES extracts.
• To assess the biological effects of the optimal NADES extract on cell growth and wound healing.

Main Methods:

• Solubility prediction of target compounds in NADESs using COSMOtherm software.
• Preparation of five betaine-based NADESs with different hydrogen bond donors (glucose, sucrose, glycerol, malic acid).
• Quantification of total polyphenols and glucosinolates, and assessment of antioxidant activity (ORAC assay).
• Evaluation of polyphenol and glucosinolate stability in NADES extracts versus ethanol extract.
• In vitro testing of the optimal extract on HaCaT cell proliferation and wound closure.
• Calculation of green chemistry parameters to assess sustainability.

Main Results:

• NADES extracts exhibited higher polyphenol content and enhanced antioxidant activity compared to ethanol extract.
• The betaine:glucose (1:1) NADES (B:Glc1:1) extract showed the best overall performance.
• The betaine:malic acid (B:MA) NADES extract yielded significantly higher glucosinolate content (nearly sixfold increase).
• Polyphenols and glucosinolates demonstrated improved stability in NADES extracts.
• The B:Glc1:1 extract promoted HaCaT cell growth and accelerated wound healing.
• Green chemistry analysis indicated the sustainability of the B:Glc1:1 extraction process.

Conclusions:

• Betaine-based NADESs are effective and sustainable solvents for extracting bioactive compounds from broccoli.
• NADES extraction enhances the concentration and stability of polyphenols and glucosinolates, leading to improved bioactivity.
• The B:Glc1:1 extract shows promise for cosmetic or nutraceutical applications due to its beneficial effects on cell growth and wound healing.