D-Chiro-Inositol (DCI)
Introduction
D-Chiro-Inositol (DCI) is a naturally occurring stereoisomer of the inositol family, with the molecular formula C₆H₁₂O₆ and CAS No. 643-12-9. It plays an essential role in the inositol phosphoglycan (IPG) second messenger system, acting as a mediator in insulin signal transduction and carbohydrate metabolism regulation. DCI exists widely in nature, but its distribution is uneven—plants such as buckwheat (Fagopyrum esculentum, F. tataricum), carob pods, and certain legumes are recognized as the richest natural sources.
In these plants, DCI is typically bound in the form of fagopyritols—DCI-linked galactosides stored in seeds as part of the plant’s carbohydrate reserves. Industrial production often starts with tartary buckwheat bran or seed fractions, which contain higher concentrations than the flour. Through aqueous extraction, purification, and crystallization, high-purity DCI (≥98% by HPLC) can be obtained.
From a physico-chemical perspective, DCI is a white to off-white crystalline powder, readily soluble in water but almost insoluble in most organic solvents, making it suitable for direct incorporation into aqueous formulations. Its stability under normal storage conditions ensures long shelf life for both bulk and finished products.
Historically, research on DCI began in the context of insulin resistance studies, and later expanded into women’s health (e.g., PCOS) and metabolic wellness formulations. Today, DCI is valued for its plant-derived, clean-label positioning and is widely used in nutraceuticals, functional foods, and clinical research.
Typical Specifications
|
Item |
Specification |
|
Assay (HPLC) |
≥98.0% D-Chiro-Inositol |
|
Appearance |
White to off-white crystalline powder |
|
Identification |
HPLC/GC-MS consistent with reference |
|
Loss on Drying |
≤1.0% |
|
Residue on Ignition |
≤0.1% |
|
Heavy Metals |
≤10 ppm |
|
Microbiology |
TPC ≤1,000 cfu/g; Yeast & Mold ≤100 cfu/g; E. coli/Salmonella: Negative |
|
Solubility |
Freely soluble in water; practically insoluble in organic solvents |
|
Packaging |
25 kg fiber drum with inner PE liner |
|
Storage |
Cool, dry place; keep sealed away from light |
|
Botanical Source |
Buckwheat (F. esculentum, F. tataricum) or other plant sources |
Benefits
✓ Supports healthy insulin signal transduction and glucose metabolism
✓ Commonly paired with myo-inositol for women’s health formulations
✓ Plant-based origin with high purity suitable for clean-label products
Application
Nutraceuticals: Capsules, tablets, powder blends (often with myo-inositol)
Functional Foods: Fortification in nutrition powders or sachets
Research Use: High-purity DCI for metabolic and endocrinology studies
Product Processing
