Optimization of phycobiliprotein extraction from triple algal co-culture

Abstract

Microalgae and cyanobacteria are photosynthetic microorganisms that inhabit freshwater and marine ecosystems. Bioactive substances (metabolites such as astaxanthin, chlorophyll-a, and phycobiliproteins) obtained from microalgae and cyanobacteria are used in a multitude of fields. Phycobiliproteins are photosynthetic antenna pigments that are found in cyanobacteria, red algae, and cryptophytes. This study aimed to determine the optimal parameters for phycobiliprotein extraction from lyophilized cells obtained from a triple algal co-culture. These parameters included the biomass: solvent ratio, CaCI₂ concentration, agitation speed, and extraction time. In all optimization processes, phycocyanin is observed to be the most dominant, while phycoerythrin has the lowest amount. It is demonstrated that all phycobiliprotein efficiencies increase after each optimization process. The highest yield of 12.51 ± 0.23 mg phycobiliprotein/g freeze-dried weight was obtained using a 1:100 (v: v) biomass: solvent ratio with 2% CaCl₂ at 100 rpm for 1 h. The significance of carefully controlling extraction parameters to maximize the efficiency of PBP extraction from triple algal co-culture is highlighted by these results. Employing a combination of extraction methods could potentially improve both the yield and purity of phycobiliproteins obtained from a triple algal co-culture. Future research should focus on developing and refining scaling-up techniques to enhance and optimize the extraction process of phycobiliproteins for industrial use.

Funding

Türkiye Bilimsel ve Teknolojik Ara?t?rma Kurumu,(121R100)