Novel HP2MGL resin-based enrichment of flavonoids from Dendrobium catenatum flower and their antiaging efficacy

This study aimed to enrich flavonoids from Dendrobium catenatum Wall ex Lindl flowers using macroporous resins and investigate their bioactivity. The optimal enrichment process with HP2MGL resin was established with a total flavonoid concentration of 0.50 mg/mL, a sample flow rate of 1 BV/h, and a sample volume of 25.5 BV. Desorption was performed using 80% ethanol at a flow rate of 3 BV/h and an eluent volume of 5 BV. The purified extract showed a 7.3-fold increase in purity compared to the crude extract. A total of 33 major compounds in the purified flavonoids were identified and quantified, including flavonols and flavonoid C-glycosides, with hyperoside being the most abundant. In vivo tests demonstrated that the enriched extract extended the lifespan of Caenorhabditis elegans, enhanced locomotion, and increased superoxide dismutase activity while significantly reducing oxidative stress markers such as lipofuscin, reactive oxygen species, and malondialdehyde. The findings provide a practical method for large-scale extraction of flavonoids from D. catenatum flowers and suggest that Dendrobium catenatum flower extract (DCFE-E) exhibits strong antiaging properties, indicating potential applications in functional foods and cosmetics. This research contributes to the scientific understanding of D. catenatum resource utilization and enhances the value of its products.