An efficient method for the extraction of astaxanthin from the red yeast Xanthophyllomyces dendrorhous.
This study investigated an efficient method for the extraction of astaxanthin from the red yeast Xanthophyllomyces dendrorhous. The extraction process comprised three steps: (1) cultivating the yeast; (2) treating the yeast culture suspension with microwaves to destroy the cell walls and microbodies; and (3) drying the yeast and extracting the astaxanthin pigment using ethanol, methanol, acetone, or a mixture of the three as the extraction solvent. Ultimately, various treatment tests were performed to determine the conditions for optimal pigment extraction, and the total carotenoid and astaxanthin contents were quantified. A frequency of 2,450 MHz, an output of 500 watts, and irradiation time of 60 s were the most optimum conditions for yeast cell wall destruction. Furthermore, optimal pigment extraction occurred when using a cell density of 10 g/l at 30 C over 24 h, with a 10% volume of ethanol.
Department ofBiotechnology, School of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Korea University, Seoul 136-701, Korea.
Seok-Keun
SK
Choi
Jeong-Hwan
JH
Kim
Young-Sam
YS
Park
Young-Jin
YJ
Kim
Hyo-Ihl
HI
Chang
D001487:Basidiomycota / Q000737:chemistry* / Q000254:growth & development / Q000378:metabolism / Q000528:radiation effects; D005285:Fermentation; D007218:Industrial Microbiology; D008872:Microwaves; D012997:Solvents; D024341:Xanthophylls / Q000032:analysis / Q000302:isolation & purification
D012997:Solvents; D024341:Xanthophylls; C005948:astaxanthine