Pigments

Rubropunctatin, an orange azaphilone pigment, is isolated from the extracts of Monascus pilosus-fermented rice (red-mold rice). Rubropunctatin has anti-inflammatory, immunosuppressive and antioxidative effects, and also exhibits anti-tumor activity.

Bikaverin (Lycopersin) is a reddish pigment produced by different fungal species. Bikaverin shows antibiotic properties against certain protozoa and fungi.

Prodigiosin (Prodigiosine) hydrochloride is a red pigment produced by bacteria as a bioactive secondary metabolite. Prodigiosin hydrochloride is a potent proapoptotic agent, and inhibits Wnt/β-catenin pathway. Prodigiosin hydrochloride has antibacterial, antifungal, antiprotozoal, antimalarial, immunosuppressive, and anticancer properties.

Neoxanthin is a major xanthophyll carotenoid and a precursor of the plant hormone abscisic acid in dark green leafy vegetables. Neoxanthin is a potent antioxidant and light-harvesting pigment. Neoxanthin induces apoptosis and has anticancer actions.

Nortanshinone is a pigment isolated from Dan-Shen.

5-O-Cinnamoylquinic acid is a co-pigment. 5-O-Cinnamoylquinic acid could form the stable blue solution.

Hypocrellin C is a pigment isolated from the fungi Hypocrella bambusae and Shiraia bambusicola.