Determination of indole-type phytonutrients in cruciferous vegetables

Abstract

Consumption of cruciferous vegetables has been associated with a low risk of developing cancer. Indole-type phytonutrients, derived from enzymatic hydrolysis of glucobrassicin, exhibit cancer-preventive properties and occur in all vegetables of the Brassicaceae family. A LC-Q-TOF-MS methodology was developed and applied in extracts from seven cruciferous vegetables allowing the rapid determination of indole-3-carbinol, indole-3-carbaldehyde, ascorbigen, indole-3-acetic acid and indole-3-acetonitrile. The novel method described herein, was validated and is characterized by low detection limits and excellent linearity. The simultaneous determination of indole-type phytonutrients in turnip and radish was performed for the first time.

Graphical Abstract

Keywords:

• Brassicaceae
• indole-3-carbaldehyde
• indole-3-carbinol
• indole-3-acetonitrile
• ascorbigen
• indole-3-acetic acid
• LC-Q-TOF-MS

Acknowledgement

This research did not receive any specific grant from funding agencies in the public, commercial, or not-for-profit sectors.

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest.