Unique Chemical Compound Found in Tehran University Rose Study
WANA (Nov 01) – Researchers at Tehran University have identified a previously unknown chemical compound in rose petals, paving the way for potential new medicinal and nutritional applications.
The study, conducted by the Faculty of Science, examined eight native Iranian rose species. Using advanced laboratory techniques, the team identified 81 chemical compounds, including one that has never before been reported in rose petals.
Dr. Kazem Mahdi-Gholi, a faculty member in the Department of Biology, explained: “This study focuses on the phytochemical profiles, particularly alkanes, in the petals of eight native Iranian rose species using gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC-MS).
Flowers were collected from healthy wild populations in various regions of Iran, including the Alborz Mountains, at altitudes ranging from 1,546 to 2,597 meters. The dried petals were extracted using the Bligh and Dyer method and analyzed under standard GC-MS conditions.”
Dr. Mahdi-Gholi added: “After collection, the chemical components of the petals were extracted and analyzed with GC-MS, the most precise method for compound identification.”
The most notable discovery was the compound 7,9-di-tert-butyl-1-oxaspiro[4.5]deca-6,9-diene-2,8-dione, previously unreported in rose petals. In addition, researchers identified 32 types of alkanes (key components of plant waxes) along with sterols, phenols, and vitamin E.
“These results will help scientists use chemical ‘fingerprinting’ to better understand relationships among rose species and classify them more accurately,” said Dr. Mahdi-Gholi.
The discovery of this wide range of bioactive compounds offers promising prospects for exploring the therapeutic properties (antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, etc.) and nutritional applications of Iran’s wild roses in the future.
Unique Chemical Compound Found in Tehran University Rose Study. Social media/ WANA News Agency
