Application of assisted extraction technologies to optimize the extraction of biologically active substances from plant materials

Abstract

There is an increased interest in obtaining amaranth grain extracts enriched with biologically active substances by deep processing of raw materials with a further prospect of their use as part of specialized multi-purpose food products. The aim of this work was to evaluate the effectiveness of membrane filtration for the extraction of biologically active substances from amaranth grains. Amaranth grain extract was obtained by enzymatic hydrolysis using a proteolytic enzyme followed by membrane treatment. the developed approach made it possible to obtain an extract from amaranth grains - a source of biologically active peptides, 20-hydroxyecdysone and polyphenols (including saponins). In total, triterpene saponins were concentrated in the extract by 8 times, and the phytoecdysteroid 20-hydroxyecdysone was more than 30 times concentrated. The high content of low molecular weight peptide fractions (more than 80%) in the composition of the extract makes it promising to evaluate its antihypertensive and antidiabetic properties in vivo. The presence of 20-hydroxyecdysone in the extract, an adaptogen with a proven effect, opens up the possibility of its use as a functional food ingredient in specialized food products, including for athletes.