Carotenoids production and extraction from Yarrowia lipolytica cells: A biocompatible approach using biosolvents

The use of carotenoids, pigments with significant importance in the food and pharmaceutical industries, has been widely recognized because of their functions as colorants and antioxidants. The production of carotenoids from oleaginous yeasts is an efficient and eco-friendly alternative to that of synthetic carotenoids. Yarrowia lipolytica, due to its ability to synthesize high-value-added compounds, including carotenoids and lipids, has emerged as a promising biotechnological platform for this purpose. This study aimed to evaluate the efficiency of biosolvents for carotenoid extraction with the goal of replacing toxic organic solvents that pose risks to both human health and the environment. The Solid-Liquid Extraction (SLE) technique was employed to disrupt the rigid cell wall and extract intracellular pigments. Subsequent extractions were conducted using a 2:3:1 (w/w/w) ratio of ethanol:ethyl acetate:water, resulting in a total β-carotene concentration of approximately 5 mg β-carotene equivalent/g dry biomass. The COSMO-SAC model was utilized to elucidate the solute–solvent affinity, and the results obtained were consistent with the experimental findings. To improve the process, various ratios of biosolvents were investigated, and a subsequent Solid-Liquid-Liquid Extraction (SLLE) was introduced. Process integration and adjustments to the mixed biosolvent composition achieved yields ranging from 50 to 100 % in just four consecutive extractions. The proposed integrative platform not only enhances the efficiency of the extraction process but also enables the fractionation and purification of bioproducts from Y. lipolytica cells, thereby maximizing their biotechnological potential.