Simple method for the extraction and reversed-phase high-performance liquid chromatographic analysis of carotenoid pigments from red yeasts (Basidiomycota, Fungi)

A simple method for the extraction of carotenoid pigments from frozen wet cells of red yeasts (Basidiomycota) and their analysis by reversed-phase HPLC using a C18 column and a water/acetone solvent system is described. Typical red yeast carotenoids belonging to an oxidative series from the monocyclic γ-carotene to 2-hydroxytorularhodin and from the bicyclic β-carotene to astaxanthin were separated. Pigment identity was confirmed by LC–atmospheric pressure chemical ionisation (APCI) mass spectrometry using similar chromatographic conditions.