J-Aggregates of Astaxanthin and Its Monoesters and Diesters

The conditions for the preparation of astaxanthin ester aggregates are optimized, and their physicochemical characteristics (size and absorption spectra) are found depending on preparation conditions. The monoester and diester fractions were isolated via column chromatography from a mixture of astaxanthin esters. An aqueous mixture of methanol and tetrahydrofuran is used for the first time to obtain aggregates, so that it is possible to obtain J-aggregates of astaxanthin monoesters and diesters, which are detected with spectrophotometry. The change in the position of a the equilibrium monomer ↔ aggregates reaction is found during storage for a month. The effect of ionic strength on the formation of astaxanthin ester J-aggregates is studied.