Natural deep eutectic solvents (NADES) ionic liquids (ILs) and deep eutectic solvents (DES) were proposed by our group to extend the range of ILs and DES, particularly to develop cheap, nontoxic,... Show moreNatural deep eutectic solvents (NADES) ionic liquids (ILs) and deep eutectic solvents (DES) were proposed by our group to extend the range of ILs and DES, particularly to develop cheap, nontoxic, and low viscosity green solvents, and to apply them in health-related fields. They are liquid supramolecules composed of common metabolites in certain molar ratios, including some water in some cases, which are characterized by extensive intermolecular interactions e.g. hydrogen bonds and ionic bonds. NADES present many advantages including low cost, simple preparation, low or negligible toxicity profile and sustainability in view of environment and economics benefits. Their preparation methods, physicochemical properties, supramolecules structures are reported in this thesis. For application, compare to conventional solvents, they show higher solubilization and extraction ability, especially for non-water soluble compounds. They are stable liquids even below zero oC, and their physicochemical properties can be adjusted by changing the water content. In the presence of NADES, anthocyanins and phenolic compounds such as carthamin show higher stability. In addition, we hypothesize that NADES might be involved in the biosynthesis, storage, and transport of various non-water soluble metabolites in cells. In-vitro evidences for their possible functions are also explored in this thesis. Show less
