Algal Carotenoids: Chemistry, Sources, and Application

Abstract

Recently, the isolation and identification of various biologically active secondary metabolites from algae have been of scientific interest, with particular attention paid to carotenoids, widely distributed in various photosynthetic organisms, including algal species. Carotenoids are among the most important natural pigments, with many health-promoting effects. Since the number of scientific studies on the presence and profile of carotenoids in algae has increased exponentially along with the interest in their potential commercial applications, this review aimed to provide an overview of the current knowledge (from 2015) on carotenoids detected in different algal species (12 microalgae, 21 green algae, 26 brown algae, and 43 red algae) to facilitate the comparison of the results of different studies. In addition to the presence, content, and identification of total and individual carotenoids in various algae, the method of their extraction and the main extraction parameters were also highlighted.

Light Influences the Growth, Pigment Synthesis, Photosynthesis Capacity, and Antioxidant Activities in Scenedesmus falcatus

“…Earlier studies have outlined prevalent carotenoids in green algae, including beta-carotene, lutein, violaxanthin, and zeaxanthin. Notably, these carotenoids demonstrate a more extensive distribution among green algal species than higher plants [ 57 ]. Lutein and beta-carotene are classified as primary carotenoids and play crucial roles in photosynthesis within the chloroplast [ 58 ].…”

Recent progress in Porphyra haitanensis polysaccharides: Extraction, purification, structural insights, and their impact on gastrointestinal health and oxidative stress management

“…Additionally, it increases the bioavailability of the polysaccharides, reduces processing time, and promotes sustainable resource utilization. Fat-soluble pigments, such as chlorophyll and carotenoids, have the potential to introduce unwanted colors and off-flavors into the extracted polysaccharides ( Generalić Mekinić, Šimat, Rathod, Hamed, & Čagalj, 2023 ), thereby affecting their suitability for various industrial applications. Furthermore, remaining pigments may influence the biological assessment of PHP due their potent antioxidant activity ( Pan et al, 2021 ).…”

Understanding Macroalgae: A Comprehensive Exploration of Nutraceutical, Pharmaceutical, and Omics Dimensions

“…To metabolize the metabolic channeling, food coloring agent, Therapeutic agent for Alzheimer's disease, immunomodulatory and destroy the cancer cell proliferation activities [92] Zeaxanthin Main source of carotenoids, various health promoting properties such as antioxidant, anti-obesity, antitumor and hepatoprotective activity [93] Caulerpin Used as a kind of anti-inflammatory and anti-viral drug. [94] Fucoxanthin Can treat the acquired diseases like obesity, diabetes, cancer, and others.…”