Comparison of extraction efficiency using ethanol and methanol for the extraction of mycosporin-like amino acids (MAAs) from Palmaria palmata

Abstract

Mycosporin like amino acids (MAAs) are low molecular weight, water soluble compounds widely distributed in marine organisms specially in seaweed, where they function as natural ultravoilet (UV) protective agents. Due to their strong UV-absorbing properties and antioxidant potential MAAs have gained increasing interest for application in food, cosmetics and pharmaceutical industries. The present study aimed to evaluate and compare efficiency of ethanol and methanol as extraction solvent for MAAs from Palmaria palmata. Dried and fresh seaweed biomass was subjected to solvent extraction using ethanol and methanol under identical conditions. The extracts were filtered and concentrated, and MAAs were analysed using appropriate analytical techniques, including spectrophotometery and chromatographic sepration. The extraction yield and MAA profile obtained with each solvent were compared to determine solvent effectiveness. The results demonstrated that solvent polarity signicantly influenced the extraction efficiency of the MAAs. Methanol showed a higher extraction yield of MAAs compared to ethanol. In addition, seasonal variation played a vital role in the MAA yield. These findings suggest that both solvent selection and harvesting season are critical factors in optimizing the extraction of MAAs from P. palmata. This study contributes to a better understanding of extraction stratagies and support the potential utilization of MAAs as natral bioactive compounds for industrial utilization.