MONASCIN

Synonym(s):(3S,3aR,9aR)-3a,4,8,9a-Tetrahydro-9a-methyl-3-(1-oxohexyl)-6-(1E)-1-propenyl-2H-furo[3,2-g][2]benzopyran-2,9(3H)-dione;(3S,3aR,9aR)-3-Hexanoyl-9a-methyl-6-((E)-propenyl)-3a,4,8,9a-tetrahydro-3H-furo[3,2-g]isochromene-2,9-dione;Monascoflavin

CAS NO.：21516-68-7
Empirical Formula: C21H26O5
Molecular Weight: 358.43
MDL number: MFCD09260177
SAFETY DATA SHEET (SDS)
Update Date: 2026-04-21 10:31:43

What is MONASCIN?

The Uses of MONASCIN

Monascin is an azaphilonoid pigment extracted from Monascus pilosus-fermented rice (red-mold rice). Monascin also exhibits anti-tumor-initiating activity and anti-inflammatory activity with oral administration.

Definition

ChEBI: An organic heterotricyclic compound that is 3a,4,8,9a-tetrahydro-2H-furo[3,2-g][2]benzopyran-2,9(3H)-dione that is substituted at positions 3, 6, and 9a by hexanoyl, (1E)-prop-1-en-1-yl an methyl groups, respectively (the 3S,3aR,9aR diastereoisomer). One of the azaphilonoid pigments in extracts of Monascus pilosus-fermented rice (red-mould rice), it is a potent inhibitor of car inogenesis measured against chemical- or UV-initiated, phorbol-promoted mouse skin tumours.

Biochem/physiol Actions

Monascin is one of the azaphilonoid pigments in extracts of Monascus pilosus-fermented rice (red-mold rice). It is a potent inhibitor of carcinogenesis measured against chemical or UV initiated, phorbol-promoted mouse skin tumors.

Properties of MONASCIN

Melting point:	145 °C
Boiling point:	574.6±50.0 °C(Predicted)
Density	1.18±0.1 g/cm3(Predicted)
storage temp.	2-8°C
pka	10.59±0.60(Predicted)
form	Solid
color	Light yellow to yellow
BRN	51355