Unveiling the potential of Pseudococcomyxa simplex: a stepwise extraction for cosmetic applications

Area of Science:

• Biotechnology
• Cosmetic Science
• Phycology

Background:

• Microalgae are rich in bioactive compounds but industrial-scale use is hindered by high processing costs.
• A biorefinery approach can enhance the economic viability of microalgal biomass utilization.
• Pseudococcomyxa simplex is an underutilized microalgal species with potential for valuable metabolite production.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore a cascade biorefinery approach for extracting cosmetic ingredients from Pseudococcomyxa simplex.
• To characterize and evaluate the bioactivity of extracted carotenoids and lipids for cosmetic applications.
• To assess the sustainability of using P. simplex as a source for cosmeceuticals.

Main Methods:

• Ultrasound-assisted extraction for carotenoids followed by conventional lipid extraction from residual biomass.
• Chemical characterization of extracts, identifying lutein as the primary carotenoid.
• In vitro assays to evaluate antioxidant and anti-aging properties, including Nrf2 pathway activation.

Main Results:

• Lutein was identified as the most abundant carotenoid, exhibiting antioxidant and in vitro anti-aging activity by activating the Nrf2 pathway.
• Lipid extraction yielded fatty acids, primarily palmitic and stearic acids, suitable for cosmetic formulations.
• Both extracted fractions demonstrated full biocompatibility in cell-based models.

Conclusions:

• Pseudococcomyxa simplex is a viable and sustainable source for cosmetic ingredients like lutein and fatty acids.
• The developed biorefinery approach effectively utilizes microalgal biomass for high-value cosmeceutical compounds.
• This study highlights the potential of P. simplex in developing novel, natural-based cosmetic products.