Abstract
Algae taxa are notably diverse regarding pigment diversity and composition, red seaweeds (Rhodophyta) being a valuable source of phycobiliproteins (phycoerythrins, phycocyanin, and allophycocyanin), carotenes (carotenoids and xanthophylls), and chlorophyll a. These pigments have a considerable biotechnological potential, which has been translated into several registered patents and commercial applications. However, challenges remain regarding the optimization and subsequent scale-up of extraction and purification methodologies, especially when considering the quality and quantity needs, from an industrial and commercial point of view. This review aims to provide the state-of-the-art information on each of the aforementioned groups of pigments that can be found within Rhodophyta. An outline of the chemical biodiversity within pigment groups, current extraction and purification methodologies and challenges, and an overview of commercially available products and registered patents, will be provided. Thus, the current biotechnological applications of red seaweeds pigments will be highlighted, from a sustainable and economical perspective, as well as their integration in the Blue Economy.
Highlights
Photosynthesis is a biochemical process inherent to photosynthetic organisms, who capture solar energy at wavelengths in the region between 400 and 700 nm, and convert them into chemical energy that is essential for the organism growth and development [1].The fundamental role of harvesting sunlight and transforming it into that essential energy belongs to pigments present in the living cells of every photosynthetic organism
The present review focuses, on pigments produced by macroalgae, red seaweeds; as this group share a number of pigments found in microalgae, opportunities do not go amiss when endorsing red seaweeds as an Phycology 2022, 2 additional and valuable source of pigments
The photosynthetic pigments held by red seaweeds are highly valuable compounds that are present in noteworthy quantities, having unquestionable value in the biotechnological context, with potential applications currently reviewed
Summary
The fundamental role of harvesting sunlight and transforming it into that essential energy belongs to pigments present in the living cells of every photosynthetic organism Depending on their specific role, these pigments are classified as photosynthetic pigments (chlorophylls) or accessory pigments (phycobiliproteins and carotenoids), that capture light energy for chlorophyll a [2]. Pigments have a number of essential characteristics that render them adequate in these several industrial contexts, and they show beneficial biological activities, as antioxidants and anticancer agents [3] They have great potential to fulfil recent market demands, that have been increasingly targeting the health and biotechnological sectors, in a quest for natural compounds and products with proven beneficial effects on human health [4]. The analysis of pigments in a matrix is performed by liquid chromatography, which is the most adequate method to perform a qualitative determination and identification of a given pigment [3]
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