Isatis canescens is a rich source of glucobrassicin and other health-promoting compounds

Abstract BACKGROUND: Glucobrassicin (GBS), a glucosinolate contained in many brassica vegetables, is the precursor of chemopreventive compounds such as indole-3-carbinol. Large amounts of GBS would be needed to perform studies aimed at elucidating its role in the diet. This studywasmainly undertaken to evaluate the flower buds of Isatis canescens as a source forGBS purification. In order to investigate the health-promoting potential of this species, glucosinolate, phenol and flavonoid content aswell as the whole antioxidant capacity were also determined. Flower bud samples were collected in four localities around Mount Etna in Sicily, Italy, where I. canescens is widespread, as they are locally traditionally eaten. RESULTS: I. canescens flower buds displayed high GBS concentrations, up to 60 mol g-1 dry weight. The purification method consisted of two chromatographic steps,which made it possible to obtain GBSwith a purity of 92-95%,with a yield of 21 g kg-1. The total glucosinolates, phenols, flavonoids and antioxidant activitywere considerable,with the southern locality showing the highest concentrations for all the phytochemicals. CONCLUSION: I. canescens flower buds represent a naturally rich source of GBS, at a level suitable for its purification. Furthermore, flower bud consumption could provide an intake of health-promoting compounds, with possible antioxidant and chemopreventive properties. © 2014 Society of Chemical Industry