High-Value Valorization of Microalgae-Derived Natural Pigments

Microalgae, such as spirulina and chlorella, represent a vital and sustainable source of natural pigments with broad prospects for high-value applications in sectors like food, pharmaceuticals, and cosmetics. However, the industrial utilization of microalgal pigments continues to face two major challenges: firstly, conventional extraction methods are often inefficient and environmentally burdensome, creating a pressing need for green and effective extraction technologies; and secondly, many pigments suffer from poor water solubility and low stability, which significantly limits their development into end-use products and commercial adoption. Therefore, establishing an integrated technical pathway—from green extraction to functional application—is essential. This Research Topic aims to focus on the high-value utilization of microalgae as the core objective and systematically carried out research on the green extraction and mechanism of action of their pigments. The primary objectives are threefold:1. To systematically obtain high-value natural pigments from microalgae, such as chlorophyll and carotenoids, laying a raw material foundation for in-depth development.2. To develop a novel green extraction system that replaces the traditional, environmentally unsustainable organic solvent method, thereby addressing the issues of environmental toxicity and low efficiency.3. To elucidate the fundamental mechanisms of microalgal pigment extraction, with a focus on mass transfer and release behaviors from a molecular perspective, thereby constructing a robust theoretical framework for process optimization and scaling.Submissions may include, but are not limited to:• Development of Green and Efficient Extraction Technologies: This includes novel solvent systems (e.g., natural deep eutectic solvents, ionic liquids), and assisted-extraction techniques (e.g., ultrasound, microwave, enzyme, pulsed electric field) for microalgal pigments.• Stabilization and Functionalization Strategies: Research on encapsulation (nano/micro), chemical modification, and formulation technologies to enhance the solubility, stability, and bioactivity of microalgal pigments.• Innovative Applications and Product Development: Studies exploring the application of microalgal pigments in functional foods, nutraceuticals, cosmeceuticals, pharmaceuticals, and as colorants or bioactive agents in novel materials.• Mechanistic Studies and Advanced Characterization: Employing spectroscopic, chromatographic, and computational (e.g., quantum chemical calculations, molecular modeling) approaches to elucidate extraction mechanisms, structure-property relationships, and pigment stability. Topic editors: Fangwei Li, Shaikh Mohd Kashif Source: https://www.frontiersin.org/research-topics/78986/high-value-valorization-of-microalgae-derived-natural-pigments