6,7-Bis-(2-methoxyethoxy)-4(3H)-quinazolinone as a novel inhibitor of tyrosinase and potential anti-browning agent of fresh-cut apples

6,7-Bis-(2-methoxyethoxy)-4(3H)-quinazolinone (BMEQ) was selected from quinazolinones for its strong tyrosinase inhibitory activity (IC50 = 160 ± 6 μM). It suppressed tyrosinase activity in a competitive way and quenched the fluorescence of the enzyme through a static mechanism. The binding of BMEQ to tyrosinase increased the hydrophobicity of the latter and facilitated non-radiative energy transfer between them. The formation of BMEQ–tyrosinase complex was driven by hydrogen bonds and hydrophobic interactions, and it loosened the basic framework structure of tyrosinase, affecting the conformation of the enzyme, and leading to a decrease in tyrosinase activity. In addition, the BMEQ postponed the oxidation of phenolics and flavonoids by inhibiting polyphenol oxidase (PPO) and peroxidase (POD), which resulted in the inhibition of the browning of fresh-cut apples. This study identified a novel tyrosinase inhibitor BMEQ and verified its potential application for improving the preservation of postharvest fruits.