Protein valorization from ora-pro-nobis leaves by compressed fluids biorefinery extractions. (March 2022) - Torres, Talyta Mayara Silva
Abstract: Ora-pro-nobis ( Pereskia aculeata ) leaves were selected as raw material for biorefinery application based on compressed fluid extractions with green solvents. The fractionation followed the sequential processes: (1) Supercritical fluid extraction (SFE) with CO2, (2) Gas expanded liquid extraction (GXL), using CO2 :Ethanol, and pressurized liquid extraction (PLE) with ethanol, and (3) Subcritical water extraction (SWE). In vitro analysis of total phenolic and total carotenoid contents and antioxidant activity (DPPH and ORAC) were assessed, stipulating PLE method as the second step of the sequential extractions. Total protein and carbohydrate contents were evaluated from SWE samples. Phenolics profile from PLE and SWE samples was assessed by LC-DAD-ESI-MS/MS, identifying 8 phenolic compounds, with quercetin, isorhamnetin and kaempferol as the main detected flavonoids. SWE at 150 and 185 °C provided the highest protein recovery, as the third step in a sequential process. Highlights: Integration of process were efficient to produce several high added-value products. PLE-EtOH was chosen as the second step of the downstream process in the biorefinery. SWE samples showed the best antioxidant activity related to Caftaric acid. SWE at 150 and 185 °C showed the best protein recovery.