Beneficial Effects of Monascus sp. KCCM 10093 Pigments and Derivatives: A Mini Review.

Daehwan Kim,Seockmo Ku

doi:10.3390/molecules23010098

Abstract

The production of Monascus pigments and related byproducts, via microbial fermentation, has been broadly utilized as coloring by traditional food industries and as a natural textile dye. In addition to these traditional purposes, Monascus pigments have been recently favored for a variety of commercial and academic purposes. Pigments and derivatives formed during Monascus fermentation have pharmaceutical and clinical properties that can counteract common diseases, including obesity, type-2 diabetes, and cancer. Various research attempts have investigated the optimum conditions for this derived compound synthesis, as well as the still-unknown bio-functional effects. Recently, several studies were conducted using Monascus sp. KCCM 10093 and its derivatives. These experimental outcomes potentially reflect the bio-functional features of Monascus sp. KCCM 10093. However, no publication to date provides an overview of Monascus sp. KCCM 10093’s unique metabolite products, functionalities, or biological pathways. In order to develop profitable commercial applications of Monascus sp. KCCM 10093, it is necessary not only to conduct continuous research, but also to systematically organize previous Monascus studies. The goals of this review are to investigate the current derivatives of Monascus sp. KCCM 10093 pigments—some of which have demonstrated newly-identified functionality—and the relevant uses of these molecules for pharmaceutical or nutraceutical purposes.

Highlights

In the past, food was used to eliminate hunger and meet nutritional requirements
Because the functional materials produced by the Monascus strain are distinct, and the pigment activity depends on the growth mode, numerous research fields would benefit from the Monascus applications currently in development [56]
The Thr-derivative increased HDL by 1–9%, and decreased LDL by 28–26%. These results suggested that the orange pigment and the Thr-derivative have anti-atherosclerosis effects, and could be considered as natural alternatives used in clinical trials

Summary

Introduction

Food was used to eliminate hunger and meet nutritional requirements. In contemporary society, food is being used as a means to eliminate disease and improve our quality of life. It is reported that Monascus pigments can exist and be produced in a cell-bound form [15,16,17] These products contain beneficial secondary metabolites, called azaphilones [18]. Over the past few decades, considerable attention has been paid to Monascus-fermented products and secondary metabolites, due to their therapeutic effects on a variety of ailments These secondary compounds include edible pigments, isoflavones, enzymes, fatty acids, organic acids, dimerumic acid (antioxidant), vitamins, γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA, hypotensive agent), monacolin K (lovastatin, anti-hypercholesterolemic agent), and other active components. Because the functional materials produced by the Monascus strain are distinct, and the pigment activity depends on the growth mode, numerous research fields would benefit from the Monascus applications currently in development [56]. 10093 fermented byproducts (mainly derivative compounds), their valuable natural effects, and their potential industrial applications

Antimicrobial and Antiviral Effects of Monascus Pigment Derivatives

Regulation of Cholesterol Synthesis and Anti-Obesity Effects

Findings

Conclusions and Research Outlook