Bioactive Compound Extraction from Momordica Species
Summary
Momordica species, notably M. charantia and M. cochinchinensis, are recognised for their rich reservoir of bioactive compounds, including cucurbitane triterpenoids, proteins, peptides and carotenoids such as lycopene and β-carotene. Extraction strategies have evolved from conventional solvent-based techniques—such as maceration and Soxhlet extraction—to advanced methods including microwave-assisted extraction (MAE), ultrasound-assisted extraction (UAE) and supercritical fluid extraction. These approaches aim to enhance yield, selectivity and efficiency while minimising solvent use and processing time. Key parameters influencing extraction outcomes comprise solvent polarity, temperature, pressure and treatment duration. Following crude extraction, purification typically involves chromatographic separation—high-performance liquid chromatography and preparative thin-layer chromatography being among the most widely employed—to isolate target compounds of high purity. Challenges remain in scaling laboratory protocols to industrial production, preserving compound stability and ensuring reproducibility. The global significance of optimised extraction methods lies in unlocking the therapeutic and nutraceutical potential of Momordica derivatives, supporting applications spanning anticancer, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial products in food, pharmaceutical and cosmetic sectors.
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Bioactive Compound Extraction from Momordica Species publication trend
The graph below shows the total number of articles in bioactive compound extraction from momordica species across all publications each year (not limited to Nature Index journals).
Technical terms
Bioactive compounds: Molecules such as triterpenoids, carotenoids and peptides that exert beneficial biological effects.
Microwave-assisted extraction (MAE): A method employing microwave radiation to rapidly heat solvents and plant material, accelerating mass transfer and reducing extraction time.
Ultrasound-assisted extraction (UAE): A technique using high-frequency sound waves to generate cavitation, disrupting cell walls and enhancing solvent penetration.
Carotenoids: Lipid-soluble pigments, including lycopene and β-carotene, renowned for antioxidant activity.
Apoptosis: Regulated programme of cell death characterised by membrane blebbing and DNA fragmentation.
Necrosis: Uncontrolled cell death due to injury, often leading to inflammation.
IC50: The concentration of an agent required to inhibit a specified biological function by 50%, used as a measure of potency.
References
- Momordica cochinchinensis (Gấc) Seed Extracts Induce Apoptosis and Necrosis in Melanoma Cells. Pharmaceuticals (2023).
- Microwave‐assisted extraction and ultrasound‐assisted extraction for recovering carotenoids from Gac peel and their effects on antioxidant capacity of the extracts. Food Science & Nutrition (2017).
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