Bioprospecting of fucoxanthin from diatoms — Challenges and perspectives

Abstract Diatoms are ubiquitous microalgae that exhibit a characteristic golden-brown color due to the high quantity of fucoxanthin. Fucoxanthin is a brown pigment molecule that belongs to the xanthophyll class of carotenoids. Owing to unique chemical properties, this pigment is known for a variety of biological functions having important medicinal properties like anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidant, anti-obesity, anti-diabetic, anti-cancer, anti-osteoporotic, anti-hypertensive, and anti-microbial activities. On account of its versatile applications and growing demands, it is one of the exorbitant pigments globally and plays a crucial role in the circular bioeconomy. Extraction of fucoxanthin from a natural source is considered most efficient, eco-friendly, and cost-effective. Therefore, selecting a suitable natural source for efficient extraction, quantification, purification of this economically important biomolecule is of utmost importance. This paper presents the current understanding of the fucoxanthin biosynthetic pathway in diatoms, characterizations of essential genes involved in its biosynthesis, and various efforts to enhance production using the biorefinery approach reviewed. This review also focuses on current knowledge of extraction methods and biological functions of fucoxanthin with its potential health benefits.