Ononin Standard

Updated: 2026-07-23

Overview

Formononetin Standard is a certified reference material (CRM) primarily used in analytical chemistry and pharmaceutical research. As a phytoestrogen isoflavone, it serves as a biomarker for quality assessment in herbal medicines and soy-based products. The standard is produced under strict quality controls to ensure precise quantification in chromatographic analyses. Derived from leguminous plants like Trifolium pratense (red clover), formononetin exhibits biological activities that make it relevant to hormone-related research. Reference standards must meet pharmacopeial requirements (e.g., USP, EP) when used in regulatory testing environments.

Physical and Chemical Properties

Formononetin crystallizes as needle-like structures with characteristic UV absorption maxima at 248nm and 300nm, useful for HPLC detection. Its fluorescence properties enable sensitive detection in LC-MS applications at excitation/emission wavelengths of 260/350nm. The compound demonstrates stability in dry form but may degrade in solution when exposed to light or high temperatures. Thermal analysis (DSC) confirms its sharp melting point, while FT-IR spectra show distinctive carbonyl (1620cm⁻¹) and aromatic (1580cm⁻¹) stretching vibrations.

Main Applications

In pharmaceutical quality control, formononetin standard calibrates instruments for quantifying active constituents in traditional Chinese medicines like Astragalus membranaceus. Nutraceutical manufacturers use it to standardize isoflavone content in menopause supplements. Research laboratories employ the standard in bioavailability studies due to its metabolic conversion to daidzein. Recent applications include anti-osteoporosis drug development and endocrine disruption research, leveraging its selective estrogen receptor modulation properties.

Safety and Storage

Although considered low-toxicity, formononetin powder requires handling with nitrile gloves and safety goggles to prevent mucous membrane irritation. Spills should be contained with inert absorbents and disposed as organic waste. Long-term storage demands protection from humidity and oxidation. Argon-purged amber vials are recommended for stock solutions. Working solutions in methanol remain stable for 2 weeks at -20°C with minimal degradation (<5%).

B2B Procurement Guide

Bulk purchasers should prioritize suppliers with ISO 17034 accreditation for reference materials. Key specifications include chromatographic purity (≥98.5%), residual solvent levels (<0.1%), and absence of heavy metals (ICP-MS verified). For GMP compliance, request full documentation: mass balance report, stability data, and method validation records. Consider vendors offering pre-weighed aliquots in sealed ampoules to minimize handling errors. MOQ typically starts at 1g, with discounts available for 10g+ quantities.