Deep eutectic solvent extraction and biological activity of polysaccharides from Tenebrio molitor

Area of Science:

• Biotechnology
• Food Science
• Insect Biochemistry

Background:

• Tenebrio molitor (mealworm) is a potential source of bioactive compounds.
• Deep eutectic solvents (DESs) offer a green and efficient extraction medium.
• Polysaccharides possess diverse biological activities.

Purpose of the Study:

• To extract polysaccharides from Tenebrio molitor using ultrasound-assisted DESs.
• To optimize the extraction process using response surface methodology (RSM).
• To evaluate the structural features and biological activities (antimicrobial, antioxidant, α-amylase inhibitory) of the extracted polysaccharides.

Main Methods:

• Screening of various DESs for polysaccharide extraction efficiency.
• Optimization of extraction parameters (DES molar ratio, water content, temperature, time) using RSM.
• Characterization of DES properties (pH, viscosity, conductivity, refractive index, density).
• Preliminary structural analysis using infrared spectroscopy.
• Evaluation of antimicrobial, antioxidant, and α-amylase inhibitory activities.

Main Results:

• Choline chloride-lactic acid identified as the optimal DES.
• Optimal extraction parameters: DES molar ratio 1:2.1, 27% water content, 70°C, 44 min.
• Achieved a polysaccharide yield of 18.62%.
• Extracted polysaccharides demonstrated significant inhibitory effects against Salmonella.
• Exhibited notable antioxidant and α-amylase inhibitory activities.

Conclusions:

• Ultrasound-assisted DES extraction is an efficient method for obtaining Tenebrio molitor polysaccharides.
• The extracted polysaccharides possess significant antimicrobial, antioxidant, and α-amylase inhibitory properties.
• Tenebrio molitor polysaccharides represent a valuable biological resource with potential applications in food and pharmaceutical industries.