HPLC analysis of geometrical isomers of lutein epoxide isolated from dandelion (Taraxacum officinale F. Weber ex Wiggers).

Lutein epoxide has been isolated from petals of dandelion (Taraxacum officinale F. Weber ex Wiggers) by thin-layer chromatography (TLC) on silica to be used for the accurate identification of this carotenoid in other sources. The extract was analyzed by high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) using a C(30) column, as a result of which six geometrical isomers were separated. The identification of these isomers was performed on the basis of their UV/vis spectroscopic features in the mobile phase. In quantitative terms, it was observed that all-E-lutein epoxide was the major carotenoid and that there were also high amounts of the (9Z)- and (9'Z)-isomers, although the latter may be an artifact.