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A Simple and Rapid Protocol for Measuring Neutral Lipids in Algal Cells Using Fluorescence
Published on: May 30, 2014
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Novel protocol optimized for microalgae lutein used as food additives.
K L Low1, A Idris1, N Mohd Yusof2
1Institute of Bioproduct Development (IBD), School of Chemical and Energy Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia, 81310 Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia.
Food Chemistry
|October 22, 2019
Summary
A novel microwave-assisted binary phase solvent extraction (MABS) method efficiently recovers lutein from microalgae. This optimized protocol significantly boosts lutein yield and reduces extraction time for dietary and industrial applications.
Area of Science:
- Biotechnology
- Natural Product Chemistry
Background:
- Marigold petals are the primary source of commercial lutein.
- Microalgae represent a promising, underexploited source of lutein for various applications.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop and optimize a novel microwave-assisted binary phase solvent extraction (MABS) method for maximum lutein recovery from Scenedesmus sp. microalgae.
- To identify optimal extraction parameters for efficient lutein isolation.
Main Methods:
- Microwave-assisted binary phase solvent extraction (MABS) was employed.
- Response surface methodology was used to optimize extraction parameters.
- Binary phase solvent composition (potassium hydroxide and acetone) was investigated.
Main Results:
- The optimal binary phase solvent was 60% potassium hydroxide with acetone (0.1 ml/ml ratio).
- Optimized MABS conditions (55°C, 36 min, 0.7 mg/ml biomass-to-solvent ratio, 250W microwave power, 250 rpm stirring) maximized lutein recovery.
- The novel protocol increased lutein recovery by 130% and reduced extraction time threefold.
Conclusions:
- The MABS method offers a highly efficient and rapid approach for lutein extraction from microalgae.
- This optimized method enhances the potential of microalgae as a sustainable source for lutein production.

