Isolation and characterization of a novel oxyphenisatin analogue, 4-Chloro-oxyphenisatin diisobutyrate, from a jelly candy purported to possess weight-loss properties

A novel oxyphenisatin analogue was identified in a type of jelly candy during routine inspections of food products marketed for weight-loss purposes. Through analysis utilizing ultra-high-performance quadrupole-Orbitrap high-resolution mass spectrometry (UHPLC-Q-Orbitrap-HRMS), the fragment ions at m/z 258 and 195 observed in the MS/MS experiments were found to be consistent with those of 4-Chloro-oxyphenisatin diacetate. It was inferred that the unknown compound is likely a derivative of 4-Chloro-oxyphenisatin diacetate. The candy was separated and purified by column chromatography, and the purified compound was determined to be 96.4 % by high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). Subsequently, the structure was confirmed through nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy. Based on the data, it was concluded that the structure of the unknown compound involved the substitution of two symmetrical acetyl groups in the 4-chloro-oxyphenisatin diacetate molecule with two isobutyl groups. Ultimately, the novel oxyphenisatin analogue was identified as (5-chloro-2-oxoindolin-3,3-ylidene) bis (4,1-phenylbutan-2-yl) diisobutyrate and designated as 4-Chloro-oxyphenisatin diisobutyrate. Finally, a quantitative analysis of the novel unknown compound in the jelly candy revealed a concentration of 6 mg per pellet. Based on the recommended daily consumption of one pellet, as indicated on the product packaging, the level of illegal additives may lead to diarrhoea and consequently poses a risk to human health. To the best of our knowledge, this represents the first report on the identification of 4-Chloro-oxyphenisatin diisobutyrate.

From 'traditional' remedies to 'modern' supplements: a systematic review and meta-analysis of pharmaceutical adulteration in weight-loss natural products

Introduction

The World Health Organization has identified obesity as an escalating public health concern affecting millions globally, contributing to the increasing demand for anti-obesity supplements. Traditional medicinal systems, such as Ayurveda and Traditional Chinese Medicine, have historically incorporated botanicals for weight management within a holistic therapeutic framework. However, the widespread commercialization of herbal weight-loss products has resulted in misrepresentation of traditional knowledge and the frequent adulteration of these formulations with synthetic pharmaceuticals to enhance their effectiveness. This phenomenon not only raises ethical concerns regarding the exploitation of traditional medicine but also presents significant health risks to consumers.

Objectives

In order to develop a longer-term strategy to overcome the challenges of poor quality and adulterated products making medical claims, this study aims to (1) estimate the prevalence of pharmaceutical adulteration in weight-loss natural products; and (2) examine the characteristics of such adulterations.

Methods

A systematic search of PubMed, CINAHL, and Google Scholar was conducted to identify relevant studies up to July 2024. The Der Simonian-Laird random-effects model was used for data pooling. Subgroup analyses and a meta-regression model were utilized to explore potential sources of heterogeneity. The quality of the included studies was assessed using the Toxicological Data Reliability Assessment Tool (ToxRTool).

Results

A total of 26 studies qualified for the systematic review, while 22 studies were included in the meta-analysis. The estimated prevalence of synthetic adulteration exhibited significant variability, ranging from 0% to 100%, with an overall pooled median estimate of 37.5% (Interquartile range (IQR) 25.9%-49.6%). The prevalence of sibutramine adulteration was found to have a median rate of 21.8% (IQR 11.9%-33.5%). The subgroup analysis revealed a high prevalence of synthetic adulteration in Europe, particularly during the years 2012-2014, with a notable occurrence in samples collected from local markets.

Conclusion

This systematic review and meta-analysis highlights the high prevalence of intentional adulteration in weight-loss natural products, with sibutramine as the most common adulterant. To protect public health and market integrity, a global framework is needed, emphasizing harmonized regulations, international collaboration, and public awareness. Future research should assess long-term health effects to ensure sustainable and safe healthcare solutions worldwide.

Effect of Different Drying Methods on the Nutritional Value of Hibiscus sabdariffa Calyces as Revealed by NMR Metabolomics

Red mature calyces of Hibiscus sabdariffa were collected from 16 different locations in Meghalaya, India. Samples were processed using shade drying (SD) and tray drying (TD). NMR spectroscopy was used to assess the metabolic composition of the calyces. In this study, 18 polar metabolites were assigned using 1D and 2D NMR spectra, and 10 of them were quantified. Proximate analysis showed that the TD method is more efficient at reducing moisture and maintaining the ash content of the Hibiscus biomass. NMR metabolomics indicates that the metabolite composition significantly differs between SD and TD samples and is more stable in TD plant processing. The differences in post-harvest drying has a greater impact on the metabolite composition of Hibiscus than the plant location.

Authentication of Garcinia fruits and food supplements using DNA barcoding and NMR spectroscopy

Garcinia L. (Clusiaceae) fruits are a rich source of (-)-hydroxycitric acid, and this has gained considerable attention as an anti-obesity agent and a popular weight loss food supplement. In this study, we assessed adulteration of morphologically similar samples of Garcinia using DNA barcoding, and used NMR to quantify the content of (-)-hydroxycitric acid and (-)-hydroxycitric acid lactone in raw herbal drugs and Garcinia food supplements. DNA barcoding revealed that mostly G. gummi-gutta (previously known as G. cambogia) and G. indica were traded in Indian herbal markets, and there was no adulteration. The content of (-)-hydroxycitric acid and (-)-hydroxycitric acid lactone in the two species varied from 1.7% to 16.3%, and 3.5% to 20.7% respectively. Analysis of ten Garcinia food supplements revealed a large variation in the content of (-)-hydroxycitric acid, from 29 mg (4.6%) to 289 mg (50.6%) content per capsule or tablet. Only one product contained quantifiable amounts of (-)-hydroxycitric acid lactone. Furthermore the study demonstrates that DNA barcoding and NMR could be effectively used as a regulatory tool to authenticate Garcinia fruit rinds and food supplements.

Authentication of Garcinia fruits and food supplements using DNA barcoding and NMR spectroscopy

Garcinia L. (Clusiaceae) fruits are a rich source of (−)-hydroxycitric acid, and this has gained considerable attention as an anti-obesity agent and a popular weight loss food supplement. In this study, we assessed adulteration of morphologically similar samples of Garcinia using DNA barcoding, and used NMR to quantify the content of (−)-hydroxycitric acid and (−)-hydroxycitric acid lactone in raw herbal drugs and Garcinia food supplements. DNA barcoding revealed that mostly G. gummi-gutta (previously known as G. cambogia) and G. indica were traded in Indian herbal markets, and there was no adulteration. The content of (−)-hydroxycitric acid and (−)-hydroxycitric acid lactone in the two species varied from 1.7% to 16.3%, and 3.5% to 20.7% respectively. Analysis of ten Garcinia food supplements revealed a large variation in the content of (−)-hydroxycitric acid, from 29 mg (4.6%) to 289 mg (50.6%) content per capsule or tablet. Only one product contained quantifiable amounts of (−)-hydroxycitric acid lactone. Furthermore the study demonstrates that DNA barcoding and NMR could be effectively used as a regulatory tool to authenticate Garcinia fruit rinds and food supplements.

Russian roulette with unlicensed fat-burner drug 2,4-dinitrophenol (DNP): evidence from a multidisciplinary study of the internet, bodybuilding supplements and DNP users

Background

2,4-Dinitrophenol (DNP) poses serious health-risks to humans. The aims of this three-stage multidisciplinary project were, for the first time, to assess the risks to the general public from fraudulent sale of or adulteration/contamination with DNP; and to investigate motives, reasons and risk-management among DNP-user bodybuilders and avid exercisers.

Methods

Using multiple search-engines and guidance for Internet research, online retailers and bodybuilding forums/blogs were systematically explored for availability of DNP, advice offered on DNP use and user profiles. Ninety-eight pre-workout and weight-loss supplements were purchased and analysed for DNP using liquid-chromatography-mass-spectrometry. Psychosocial variables were captured in an international sample of 35 DNP users (26.06 ± 6.10 years, 94.3 % male) with an anonymous, semi-qualitative self-reported survey.

Results

Although an industrial chemical, evidence from the Internet showed that DNP is sold ‘as is’, in capsules or tablets to suit human consumption, and is used ‘uncut’. Analytical results confirmed that DNP is not on the supplement market disguised under fictitious supplement names, but infrequently was present as contaminant in some supplements (14/98) at low concentration (<100mcg/kg). Users make conscious and ‘informed’ decisions about DNP; are well-prepared for the side-effects and show nonchalant attitude toward self-experimentation with DNP. Steps are often taken to ensure that DNP is genuine. Personal experience with performance- and appearance enhancing substances appears to be a gateway to DNP. Advice on DNP and experiences are shared online. The significant discrepancy between the normative perception and the actual visibility suggests that DNP use is-contrary to the Internet accounts-a highly concealed and lonesome activity in real life. Positive experiences with the expected weight-loss prevail over the negative experiences from side effects (all but two users considered using DNP again) and help with using DNP safely is considered preferable over scare-tactics.

Conclusion

Legislation banning DNP sale for human consumption protects the general public but DNP is sold ‘as is’ and used ‘uncut’ by determined users who are not dissuaded from experimenting with DNP based on health threats. Further research with stakeholders’ active participation is imperative for targeted, proactive public health policies and harm-reduction measures for DNP, and other illicit supplements.

Electronic supplementary material

The online version of this article (doi:10.1186/s13011-015-0034-1) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.