Hypericin – CAS 548-04-9 – Analytical Reference Standard

Hypericin (CAS 548-04-9) is a photosensitive antiviral, anticancer, and antidepressant agent derived from Hypericum perforatum (St. John’s wort). Hypericin and pseudohypericin are two natural products, structurally belonging to the chemical class of naphthodianthrones. St. John’s wort also contains protohypericin, protopseudohypericin, and cyclopseudohypericin. Protohypericin and protopseudohypericin are the biosynthetic precursors of hypericin and pseudohypericin. Hypericin has been extensively studied for its application in photodynamic therapy. Photodynamic therapy (PDT) involves administration of a tumor-localizing nontoxic drug, known as photosensitizer. Visible light in the presnce of oxygen activates the photosensitizer, resulting in the generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS). These ROS are toxic to the tumor cells, which leads to tumor death and tissue destruction.

Our hypericin is produced through a synthetic process and is chemically identical to hypericin purified from St. John’s wort. The benefit to production through chemical synthesis is the resulting higher and improved solubility from better controlled crystalline structure. Production of the compound through isolation often introduces solvents which co-crystalize with the target and become difficult to remove.

Comments for Analysis:

High purity hypericin has a propensity to precipitate/crystallize when in concentrations above 0.5 mg/ml in 100% methanol. For consistent results in standardization, ensure concentration below 0.5 mg/ml. The addition of up to 2% pyridine will help stabilize the compound in solution.