An integration study of microalgae bioactive retention: From microalgae biomass to microalgae bioactives nanoparticle

Area of Science:

• Biotechnology
• Food Science
• Materials Science

Background:

• Microalgae yield bioactive compounds with therapeutic potential (anticancer, anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory).
• Applications in food are limited by low solubility, poor stability, and degradation of natural compounds.
• Nanoencapsulation offers a promising solution to overcome these limitations.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review multi-product biorefinery processes for microalgae bioactive compounds.
• To critically analyze nanoencapsulation technologies for microalgae extracts.
• To identify factors influencing bioactive material acquisition and retention.

Main Methods:

• Comprehensive literature review of upstream and downstream processing in microalgae biorefineries.
• Systematic review of nanoencapsulation techniques and nanoparticle formulations for microalgae bioactive compounds.
• Analysis of critical process parameters affecting bioactive compound stability and bioavailability.

Main Results:

• Identified key processes and factors impacting the yield and stability of microalgae bioactive materials.
• Highlighted advances in nanoencapsulation strategies for microalgae extracts, focusing on nanoparticle formation.
• Evaluated the effectiveness of various nanoencapsulation approaches in improving compound retention.

Conclusions:

• Nanoencapsulation is crucial for enhancing the stability and applicability of microalgae bioactive compounds in food.
• Optimized biorefinery and nanoencapsulation processes can facilitate the incorporation of microalgae into functional foods.
• This research supports the development of high-value microalgae nutraceuticals for improved human health.