Methods for Upstream Extraction and Chemical Characterization of Secondary Metabolites from Algae Biomass

Abstract

Marine life is very rich in producing various and distinctive chemical components, both basic and complex. Due to the harsh conditions such as high salinity, deficiency of nutrients, light and space, which make the marine environment competitive, organisms adapt to the environment by producing various chemicals and metabolites to help them survive under such conditions. In many studies great emphasis has been given to the secondary metabolites produced by algae (macro and microalgae). Certain species of algae are known for their high content of fatty acids, fibers, antioxidants, carotenoids, sterols, proteins, phytocolloids, lectins, oils, amino acids, unsaturated fatty acids, and vitamins, which could be commercially utilized. Current algae studies emphasize on four main research areas: fuels, bioactive metabolites, toxins, and chemical ecology. This paper focuses on reviewing interesting biochemicals from algae biomass and their therapeutic applications. To achieve optimum extraction of high-value products, extraction methods and conditions were thoroughly presented in this review. Finally, different analytical approaches and techniques to identify the extracted chemicals were discussed.