Purified <i>Monascus</i> Pigments: Biological Activities and Mechanisms of Action.

ABSTRACT: Monascus pigments having yellow, orange, and red colors are widely studied for their potential beneficial properties. Many different biological activities have been reported regarding Monascus pigments and their derivatives, but the usual method is to test complex extracts from the mycelium of the fungus or from a fungus-fermented substrate. However, this review is mainly concerned with the biological activities of purified Monascus pigments. Both yellow (ankaflavin, monascin) and red (rubropunctamine, monascorubramine) Monascus pigments are proven antioxidants if used in concentrations of 10 μg/mL or higher. Antimicrobial activity against Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria and fungi has been observed with all Monascus pigments. However, the best an

SUBMITTER: Husakova M 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC11877510 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Feb

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature