Macroalgae as Protein Sources—A Review on Protein Bioactivity, Extraction, Purification and Characterization

The increased demand for protein sources combined with a decrease in the available land and water resources have led to a growing interest in macroalgae as alternative protein sources. This review focuses on strategies for macroalgae protein extraction, enrichment and characterization. To date, the...

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Published inApplied sciences Vol. 11; no. 17; p. 7969
Main Authors Gordalina, Mariana, Pinheiro, Helena M., Mateus, Marília, da Fonseca, M. Manuela R., Cesário, M. Teresa
Format Journal Article
LanguageEnglish
Published Basel MDPI AG 28.08.2021
Subjects
Algae
bioactivity
Biological activity
Biomass
Chemical extraction
Chlorophyll
Electric fields
Glycoproteins
Lectins
Lipids
macroalgae
Nitrogen
Peptides
Pigments
protein extraction
Protein purification
Protein sources
Proteins
Salinity
seaweed
Supercritical fluids
Water resources
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Summary:The increased demand for protein sources combined with a decrease in the available land and water resources have led to a growing interest in macroalgae as alternative protein sources. This review focuses on strategies for macroalgae protein extraction, enrichment and characterization. To date, the protein extraction methods applied to algae include enzymatic hydrolysis, physical processes and chemical extraction. Novel methods, such as pulsed electric field, microwave-assisted, pressurized liquid and supercritical fluid extractions, and the application of smart solvents are discussed. An overview of the use of membranes and other processes to generate high-value protein concentrates from algae extracts is also presented, as well as some examples of the methods used for their characterization. The potential bioactivities from macroalgae-derived proteins and peptides, including novel glycoproteins and lectins, are briefly reviewed.
ISSN:2076-3417
2076-3417
DOI:10.3390/app11177969