Aurantiacin

Aurantiacin is a chemical compound found in citrus fruits, particularly in the peels of oranges and lemons. Its chemical name is 2-methylanthraquinone. It belongs to a class of organic compounds known as anthraquinones, which are characterized by a specific arrangement of three fused benzene rings with two ketone groups. Aurantiacin is responsible for the yellow-orange color observed in these fruit peels.

The isolation and identification of aurantiacin have been subjects of research in natural product chemistry. While its presence in fruits is natural, it can also be synthesized in a laboratory. Aurantiacin has been investigated for various properties, including its potential as a dye or pigment due to its color. Some studies have also explored its biological activities, although extensive research in this area is ongoing and not yet conclusive. Its occurrence is primarily in the outer layers of citrus fruits, contributing to their visual appeal. The concentration of aurantiacin can vary depending on the specific citrus species and cultivar.