Exploring the versatility of Porphyridium sp.: A comprehensive review of cultivation, bio-product extraction, purification, and characterization techniques

Interest in red microalgae of the Porphyridium genus has surged due to their richness in phycobiliproteins, polyunsaturated fatty acids, and sulfated polysaccharides. These biomasses and their derivatives find applications across food, feed, nutraceutical, pharmaceutical, and cosmetic industries. A deeper understanding of their properties and extraction methods is essential to optimize downstream processing. This paper comprehensively reviews Porphyridium sp., focusing on cultivation techniques, bioproduct extraction, purification, and characterization. It delves into protein, lipid, and polysaccharide extraction, considering the influence of culture conditions on biomass yield. Various methods like chromatography, electrophoresis, and membrane-based techniques for cell lysis and bioproduct recovery are explored, highlighting their pros and cons. By offering diverse insights, this review aims to inspire innovative research and industry progress in red microalgae biotechnology, contributing to sustainable solutions across sectors.