The Radiant World of Cyanobacterial Phycobiliproteins: Examining Their Structure, Functions, and Biomedical Potentials

Abstract

Phycobiliproteins (PBPs) are accessory light-harvesting pigment complexes found in cyanobacteria, red algae, and certain types of cryptophytes. The unique spectral features (strong absorbance and fluorescence), proteinaceous nature, and some imperative properties such as the anti-oxidative, hepato-protective, anti-inflammatory, and anti-aging activity of PBPs allow their use in biomedical industries. However, basic research and technological innovations are required to explore their potential in biomedical applications. The techniques responsible for therapeutic effects need to be standardized for medical application purposes. This review focuses on the current status of PBPs, their structure, functions, methods of preparation, and applications. Additionally, the stability, bioavailability, and safety issues of PBPs, along with their use in therapeutics, are discussed.

Innovative Bioactive Products with Medicinal Value from Microalgae and Their Overall Process Optimization through the Implementation of Life Cycle Analysis—An Overview

“…Specifically, depending on the wavelength absorbance, they can be classified as (i) purple phycoerythrins, λ max = 540-570 nm (ii); orange phycoerythrocyanins, λ max = 560-600 nm; (iii) blue phycocyanins, λ max = 610-620 nm; and (iv) blue-green allophycocyanins, λ max = 650-655 nm [96]. They are biodegradable, innocuous, hydrophilic compounds, of a great molecular weight (220-300 kDa), composed of two main subunits, α and β, which stabilize each other through electrostatic forces and form steady trimers (αβ) 3 or hexamers that promote solar light absorbance [97]. Their chromophore parts consist of open chain tetrapyrroles bonded to cysteine covalently via thioether linkages, which are different for every subtype of PBP, functioning as a diagnostic for the integrity of its structure, since it maintains its color only in its natural form [98].…”