Evaluation of Antioxidant Contents and Structural Identification by HPTLC and HPLC-MS/MS of Carotenoids in the BF59XCIP1 Variety of Ipomoea batatas L.

Abstract

Objective: Orange-fleshed sweet potatoes are an important source of nutrients for consumers thanks to the carotenoids they contain. Carotenoids are bioactive compounds which, thanks to their anti-radical properties, can protect the human body against oxidative stress. Oxidative stress is the cause of many degenerative diseases, such as cancer, blindness, and aging. This study aims to evaluate the antioxidant content of the orange-fleshed variety BF59XCIP1, obtained by crossing varieties adapted to local agroecological conditions, and to identify the main carotenoids in this variety. Study Design: The work combined cutting, tuber harvesting, and various laboratory analyses. This work was carried out as part of my doctoral thesis. Methodology: Two types of extracts were prepared. Extracts using an acetone-water-acetic acid solvent system (70:29.5:0.5 v/v/v) for the evaluation of antioxidant content and hexane extracts for structural identification. Antioxidant content was evaluated using the DPPH and FRAP methods. HPTLC-MS and HPLC-MS/MS analyses were used for carotenoid identification. Results: antioxidant content assessed using the DPPH and FRAP methods was estimated at 0.082 mg ET/g and 0.183 mg ET/g of fresh plant material, respectively. For the structural identification of carotenoids, analysis of the two major spots by HPTLC-MS identified β-cryptoxanthin, zeaxanthin, and β-carotene. HPLC-MS/MS analysis identified capsanthin, echinenone, α-tocopherol, and β-carotene.  Conclusion: The BF59XCIP1 variety of orange-fleshed sweet potato is a source of vitamin A. Therefore, its consumption can compensate for vitamin A deficiency in malnourished children.