Optimization of ABTS radical cation assay specifically for determination of antioxidant capacity of intracellular extracts of microalgae and cyanobacteria

• Type: Article in International Scientific Journal
• Date: 2013

Authors

A. Catarina Guedes (Author) Other; Helena M. Amaro (Author) Other; Maria S. Gião (Author) Other; F. Xavier Malcata (Author) FEUP

Journal

Title: Food Chemistry

Vol. 138 No. 1

Pages: 638-643

ISSN: 0308-8146

Publisher: Elsevier

Indexing

ISI Web of Knowledge - 26 Citations

ISI Web of Science

Scopus - 48 Citations

Scientific classification

FOS: Engineering and technology

Other information

Authenticus ID: P-001-ZVV

DOI: 10.1016/j.foodchem.2012.09.106

Abstract (EN): A renewed interest in antioxidants has arisen in recent years; microalgae and cyanobacteria are potential sources thereof for use as food/feed ingredients. However, improved methods for comprehensive screening of antioxidant capacity specifically in intracellular extracts of marine microorganisms are required- encompassing lipophilic and hydrophilic compounds simultaneously. The original ABTS method was thus improved, and in particular the procedures of cell disruption and storage were optimized. The best solvent found was ethanol/water (1:1, v/v). The reaction to form ABTS+ in said solvent was essentially complete by eight hours, and this radical cation was stable for at least 6 days; at room temperature, the ABTS+ solution remained within an allowable analytical range for up to 13 h. Ultra Turrax was the best cell disruption method, and refrigeration was the best preservation method. This improved methodology was validated with four representative strains that respond poorly to cell disruption.

Language: English

Type (Professor's evaluation): Scientific

No. of pages: 6