Insights on enhancing the application of glucoraphenin in radish based on the decomposition mechanism

Glucosinolates (GLs) serve as crucial precursors for bioactive isothiocyanates (ITCs). As a GL, glucoraphenin (GRE) exhibits significant potential for diverse applications. Despite being deemed stable, massive GRE decomposed during cooking and processing. To further enhance the application of GRE, the decomposition mechanisms were investigated by initiating the decomposition reactions through manipulation of concentration, temperature, pH value, solvents, and reducing agents. The decomposition products were identified using NMR and LC-MS to further elucidate the decomposition mechanisms. The solvolysis initiated the decomposition, with the decomposition products being determined by the selective removal of either glucose or thioglucose, which was influenced by exogenous factors. The removal of thioglucose disabled the formation of ITCs, and nitrile was generated through a redox mechanism involving the removal of HS-OH. These mechanisms helped elucidate the effects of various factors on GRE decomposition and provided insights for effective utilization of GRE during the cooking or processing.