Efficient extraction and purification of mycosporines-like amino acids (MAAs) following a multiproduct biorefinery approach

Author(s)

Vaz, Barbara M. C. ; Leite, Maria Sofia C. T. S. ; Contieri, Leticia S. ; Mesquita, Leonardo M. de Souza ; Conde, Alexandra ; Oliveira, Joana P. ; Pinto, Diana C. G. A. ; Ventura, Sonia P. M.

• Document type: Journal article
• Source: Separation and Purification Technology; v. 363, p. 10-pg., 2025-03-01.

Abstract

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. (AU)

• FAPESP's process: 20/08421-9 - Application of non-volatile alternative solvents to create sustainable two-dimensional and integrated platforms for harnessing agro-industrial waste from jaboticaba and pomegranate fruits
• Grantee: Leonardo Mendes de Souza Mesquita
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Post-Doctoral
• FAPESP's process: 20/03623-2 - Extraction and separation of phenolic compounds from green propolis by a bidimensional system
• Grantee: Letícia Sanches Contieri
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Doctorate (Direct)