Determination of the isoflavone genistein in soybeans by high-performance liquid chromatography following cloud point extraction.

A simple and sensitive method has been developed for preconcentration and determination of genistein in soybeans. This method is based on cloud point extraction (CPE) of genistein from soybeans using ethylene glycol monoalkyl ether (Genapol X-080) as a nonionic surfactant. The concentration of extracted genistein was determined by HPLC with a UV detector. Optimum experimental conditions were established. With 5% Genapol X-080 (v/v), a liquid/solid ratio of 25:1 mL/g, and ultrasonic-assisted extraction at 40 degrees C for 45 min, the extraction percentage of genistein reached its highest value. The preconcentration factor for genistein was about 16.5. The RSD for seven replicate measurements and the LOD were +/- 4.45% and 15.0 ng/mL, respectively. CPE is simple, inexpensive, and suitable for extraction of genistein from soybean. It uses environmentally friendly surfactants and offers a convenient alternative to more conventional extraction systems.