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Email the author (Login required) Molecular structure analysis of water-soluble polysaccharides from Nannochloropsis oculata
Submited: 2025-04-07 18:25:31 | Published: 2025-12-16 09:42:40
DOI: https://doi.org/10.3856/vol54-issue1-fulltext-3425
Abstract
Nannochloropsis species are highly productive and rich in carbohydrates, proteins, and polyunsaturated fatty acids. Nevertheless, in Nannochloropsis species, carbohydrates and proteins have been less explored; their lipids have been extensively tested for biofuel applications, and in the past decade, the carbohydrate content has been explored for biomedical applications. Despite this, knowledge about their composition and chemical structure remains insufficient. In this study, we characterized the water-soluble polysaccharides of N. oculata CIB76 using mass spectrometry and nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy. The analysis revealed that water-soluble polysaccharides from N. oculata CIB76 have a β-1,3/1,6 glucan structure, with a molecular weight of 4.2 to 6.2 kDa and a high degree of polymerization of 26 to 38. The type of β-glucans obtained from N. oculata CIB76 has been described as a high-value product with huge potential in biomedical applications. These types of β-glucans have applications in immune modulation, anti-inflammatory treatments, and anticancer therapies, positioning them as high-value in the pharmaceutical industry. Our findings provide the first detailed structural insight into polysaccharides from N. oculata CIB76, paving the way for further exploration in the biomedicine field. In conclusion, this work highlights the dual role of Nannochloropsis: as a pivotal renewable energy source in the bioeconomy and as an innovator in healthcare solutions that emphasize sustainability and the use of high-value resources.
