| Lycopene is a phytochemical, synthesized by plants and microorganisms but not by animals. It is an acyclic isomer of beta-carotene. This highly unsaturated hydrocarbon contains 11 conjugated and 2 unconjugated double bonds, making it longer than any other carotenoid. As a polyene, it undergoes cis-trans isomerization induced by light, thermal energy, and chemical reactions. Lycopene obtained from plants tends to exist in an all-trans configuration, the most thermodynamically stable form. Humans cannot produce lycopene and must ingest fruits, absorb the lycopene, and process it for use in the body. In human plasma, lycopene is present as an isomeric mixture, with 50% as cis isomers. Synonyms: psi,psi-Carotene, all-trans-Lycopene, C.I. 75125, Lyco Vit, Lycopene 7, Lycored, NSC 407322, Redivivo, all-trans-Lycopene, trans-Lycopene CAS No: 502-65-8 Molecular Formula: C40H56 Molecular Weight: 536.87 Appearance: Supplied as a dark red solid. Purity: ~90% Melting Point: >170C (dec.) Solubility: Benzene (Slightly), Chloroform (Slightly) Stability: Hygroscopic, light and moisture sensitive. Unstable in solution. Atmosphere: Inert gas Method for Determining Identity: Proton NMR Spectroscopic and Mass Spectrometric Analysis TLC Conditions: SiO2: Hexane, Ethyl Aectate: 10:1, Visualized with UV and naked eye, Single spot, Rf=0.6 Storage: Long-term storage is recommended at -70C. For maximum recovery of product, centrifuge the original vial prior to removing the cap. Store under inert atmosphere. |
