Biotechnological Valorization of the Invasive Macroalgae Rugulopteryx okamurae in a Biorefinery Context

Student: 
Alizee JAMONT

This study explores using biomass from the invasive marine species Rugulopteryx okamurae in biorefineries for pharmaceuticals and agriculture. The biomass was sequentially extracted using water, methanol-acetone, ethyl acetate, dichloromethane, and hexane. The extracts were assessed for in vitro antioxidant properties, enzyme inhibition, and biostimulatory effects. The methanol-acetone extract exhibited the highest DPPH radical scavenging activity, while the water extract demonstrated significant ABTS and NO radical scavenging. The hexane extract displayed metal chelating activity, and the ethyl acetate extract showed the strongest reducing power in the FRAP assay. Chemical analysis revealed that the ethyl acetate extract had the highest total phenolic and flavonoid content, which correlated with its potent antioxidant and enzyme inhibitory activities. The ethyl acetate extract inhibited AChE and BChE, while the hexane extract strongly inhibited tyrosinase. Preliminary results suggest the water extract may benefit turfgrass growth. Residual biomass had beneficial minerals, suggesting potential for soil amendment and animal feed, though safe processing is needed due to high sesquiterpene content. This study underscores the dual benefit of R. okamurae for ecological management and industrial application, demonstrating its potential as a sustainable source of bioactive compounds and biostimulants, and transforming an ecological challenge into a valuable industrial resource.

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