Apigenin-7-o-glucuronide assay

Apigenin-7-O-glucuronide is a glucuronide flavonoid derived from apigenin, which is naturally present in many medicinal and food plants. This molecule typically results from the enzymatic biotransformation of apigenin via a glucuronidation reaction. It is an essential marker in plant extracts and nutraceutical formulations, particularly in products intended for antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, or metabolic effects.

Apigenin-7-O-glucuronide assays have become essential for manufacturers working with plant extracts, dietary supplements, or conducting bioavailability studies. They provide a better understanding of the stability, metabolic transformation, quality of extracts, and conformity of production batches.

Analytical principles and techniques

The analysis of apigenin-7-O-glucuronide relies primarily on high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) coupled with mass spectrometry (LC-MS or LC-MS/MS). This technique guarantees excellent sensitivity, essential for detecting and quantifying this compound in matrices that are sometimes complex or of low concentration.

Analytical steps generally include:
• liquid-liquid or solid-liquid extraction depending on the matrix
• optional purification by SPE when interfering substances are present
• chromatographic separation by HPLC or UPLC
• detection and quantification by mass spectrometry (MS/MS)
• use of certified standards for optimal accuracy

This method is particularly suited to plant extracts rich in flavonoids, complex formulations or samples from bioavailability experiments (excluding human samples).

Industrial interest of dosing

Apigenin-7-O-glucuronide assays meet different technical and regulatory needs depending on the industrial sector:

• Standardization of plant extracts:
Extracts of chamomile, parsley, celery, or medicinal plants naturally contain glucuronide flavonoids. Quantifying these flavonoids ensures batch reproducibility and compliance with specifications.

• Quality control of food supplements:
Manufacturers use this dosage to verify compliance with active ingredients, secure nutritional or wellness claims, and ensure the stability of plant ingredients over time.

• Bioavailability studies:
In non-human contexts (e.g., animal models), apigenin-7-O-glucuronide is an important metabolite reflecting the transformation and absorption of flavonoids. Its measurement allows for the study of the impact of formulations or excipients on the bioavailability of active ingredients.

• Verification of the stability of processed plants:
Extraction, drying, or concentration processes can alter the proportions between free flavonoids and glucuronides. Analysis allows for the optimization of industrial processes.

• Identification and authentication:
The presence or absence of this metabolite can also confirm the botanical authenticity of an extract.

Commonly analyzed matrices

YesWeLab's partner laboratories support a wide range of matrices:

• Raw or standardized plant extracts
• Plant powders
• Food supplements in capsule, tablet, or liquid form
• Hydroalcoholic, hydroglycerin, or CO₂ extracts
• Ayurvedic or phytotherapeutic preparations
• Non-human biological fluids (plasma, serum, tissues) in an experimental setting
• Plant-based foods rich in flavonoids

Each matrix benefits from a suitable preparation method, guaranteeing reliable and reproducible quantification.

Sector applications

Apigenin-7-O-glucuronide assay is particularly requested in the following fields:

• Nutraceuticals and food supplements
• Phytotherapy
• Natural ingredients for cosmetics
• Botanical and agronomic research
• Quality control of plant extracts
• R&D on polyphenols and flavonoids
• Optimization of extraction processes

This indicator plays a key role in assessing the biological potential of flavonoid-rich plants.

Further analyses recommended

For a complete characterization of extracts or formulations, YesWeLab recommends the following analyses:

• Apigenin (aglycone form) assay
• Complete polyphenol profile by HPLC
• Isoflavone assay
• Volatile compound analysis by GC-MS
• Pesticide assay

These analyses provide a comprehensive view of the quality, purity, and authenticity of the raw materials.

YesWeLab Expertise

YesWeLab has been supporting manufacturers, distributors, R&D laboratories, and industrial companies since 2020 in conducting plant and nutraceutical analyses. Our network of over 200 partner laboratories in Europe possesses the equipment and expertise necessary to guarantee reliable, accurate results that comply with regulatory requirements.

For each project, we select the most suitable method, manage the analytical logistics, and provide comprehensive support through our digital platform. Our scientific team remains available to advise you on the choice of analyses, sample preparation, and results interpretation.