Comparison of Spirulina sp. (Arthrospira sp.) and Chlorella sp. Extracts Concerning the UV Absorption Values and Anti-Oxidant Activity

Abstract

Introduction: Microalgae have been approved as a good source of UV radiation protective compounds, such as mycosporin-like amino acids (MAAs), carotenoids and polyphenols. Spirulina (Arthrospira) and Chlorella gain much attraction in the skin care market as natural sources of available products. Materials and Methods: In this study, different extracts were prepared from the dry powder of Chlorella vulgaris and Arthrospira platensis. Partial purification of MAA compounds was performed. The extracted compounds were analyzed by high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) and mass spectrometry and the sample's Ultraviolet (UV) absorption in the range of UV-A (400-315 nm) and UV-B (315-280 nm) was measured by spectrophotometric method. The total protein content of the extracts and their antioxidant effect were also analyzed. Results: The samples extracted with methanol showed a higher percentage of compounds with similar characteristics to mycosporine-like amino acids, and had notable antioxidant activity. In mass spectrometry, two major peaks with a molecular mass equivalent to m/z 344 and 887 were identified. The samples extracted from both microalgae had more compounds with maximum absorption at the UV-A and UV-B range, with 50% and 100% methanol. In general, the methanol extraction of UV-absorbing compounds from both C. vulgaris and A. platensis led to an increase in the extraction yield. Conclusion: According to the different features of samples, using a combination of them as natural sources for the preparation of sunscreens may be beneficial to make an efficient product.