Simplified and rapid method for extraction of ergosterol from natural samples and detection with quantitative and semi-quantitative methods using thin-layer chromatography

A new and simplified method for extraction of ergosterol (ergosta-5,7,22-trien-3beta-ol) from fungi in soil and litter was developed using pre-soaking extraction and paraffin oil for recovery. Recoveries of ergosterol were in the range of 94-100% depending on the solvent to oil ratio. Extraction efficiencies equal to heat-assisted extraction treatments were obtained with pre-soaking extraction. Ergosterol was detected with thin-layer chromatography (TLC) using fluorodensitometry with a quantification limit of 8 ng. Using visual evaluation of images of TLC plates photographed in UV-light the quantification limit was 16 ng.