Artepillin C, a major ingredient of Brazilian propolis, induces a pungent taste by activating TRPA1 channels.

ABSTRACT: Brazilian green propolis is a popular health supplement because of its various biological properties. The ethanol extract of Brazilian green propolis (EEBP) is characteristic for its herb-like smell and unique pungent taste. However, the ingredients responsible for its pungency have not yet been identified. This study provides the first evidence that artepillin C is the main pungent ingredient in EEBP and that it potently activates human transient receptor potential ankyrin 1 (TRPA1) channels. EEBP was fractionated using column chromatography with a step gradient elution of an ethanol-water solution, and the fractions having the pungent taste were determined by sensory tests. HPLC analysis revealed that the pungent fraction was composed primarily of artepillin C, a prenylated derivative of

SUBMITTER: Hata T 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC3487895 | biostudies-literature | 2012

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature