Extraction and Optimization of Fucoidan From Sargassum muticum Using Acidic Eutectic Solvents and Evaluation of Their Effects on Fibroblast Cell Lines

What if the secret to sustainable medicine was hiding in seaweed—and we could extract it with a simple, green solvent? A new study unlocks fucoidan from brown algae using an eco-friendly recipe that boosts cell growth.

Fucoidan, a sulfated polysaccharide from the cell walls of brown algae like Sargassum muticum, has long fascinated scientists with its promising bioactivities. But traditional extraction methods often rely on harsh chemicals. This study flips the script, using deep eutectic solvents (DESs)—a green alternative—to pull out this valuable compound efficiently and sustainably.

The winning formula? Lactic acid combined with glycerol, heated to 60°C, with just 4% water and a solid-to-liquid ratio of 0.1167. This optimized process delivered a fucoidan yield of 6.6%, with a sulfate content of 0.170 mg/mg and uronic acid at 0.023 mg/mg. The team confirmed the chemical structure using colorimetric tests, FTIR, and NMR, ensuring the extracted fucoidan was authentic.

But the real excitement lies in what this fucoidan can do. Antioxidant assays showed moderate activity (ABTS 25.84%, DPPH 30.45%, FRAP 690 μg/μg), yet the cellular tests were striking. When applied to L929 fibroblast cells at concentrations of 50 and 75 μg/mL, the fucoidan stimulated cell viability, leading to 179% colony formation and 449 invasive cells—hints of powerful effects on proliferation and migration.

These findings suggest that fucoidan extracted with LacAc:Gly isn't just a lab curiosity. It's a bioactive powerhouse, obtained through a sustainable, green process. For scientists and eco-conscious readers alike, this is a step toward harnessing nature's bounty without harming the planet.

Key Points

• Green DES extraction yields 6.6% fucoidan from Sargassum muticum.
• Lactic acid-glycerol solvent at 60°C optimizes yield and sulfate content.
• Fucoidan boosts fibroblast viability, colony formation, and migration.