Efficient extraction and purification of mycosporines-like amino acids (MAAs) following a multiproduct biorefinery approach
Bárbara M. C. Vaz, Maria Sofia C.T.S. Leite, Letícia S. Contieri, Leonardo M. de Souza Mesquita, Alexandra Conde, Joana Oliveira, Diana C. G. A. Pinto, Sónia P. M. Ventura
Abstract
• Extraction & purification of mycosporines-like amino acids (MAAs) from Gracilaria sp. • Separation of MAAs from non-fluorescent proteins and phycobiliproteins. • Ultrafiltration and induced precipitation used on the purification of MAAs. • Final extract rich in MAAs obtained with high antioxidant activity. • Three different fractions were obtained from Gracilaria sp. A marine bio-based economy has emerged as a sustainable and renewable solution to address the resource depletion of fossil fuels and ensure a responsible and sustainable utilization of natural resources by following a multi-product biorefinery approach. Macroalgae are a valuable source of several high-demand compounds including mycosporine-like amino acids (MAAs), which can absorb UV radiation and protect the skin from external damage. In this work, a sustainable and multi-product biorefinery was designed from Gracilaria sp. by applying a solid–liquid extraction followed by two purification steps, ultrafiltration and induced precipitation. This process enabled the recovery of three valuable compound fractions, one rich in phycobiliproteins, a second, rich in non-fluorescent proteins, and a third, rich in MAAs (main goal), specifically porphyra-334. In addition, by 2,2′-azino-bis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) (ABTS) scavenging assay, MAAs-rich fraction revealed enhanced antioxidant activity. Lastly, a comprehensive conceptual design of the process was created, envisioning its implementation at an industrial scale.