Extraction and characterization of Argentine red shrimp (Pleoticus muelleri) phospholipids as raw material for liposome production

Phospholipids rich in omega-3 fatty acids from Argentine red shrimp waste were explored as a source to produce food-grade liposomes. Partially purified phospholipids (PL-AS), hexane-soluble (HxSE) and acetone-soluble (AcSE) lipid co-extracts, were characterized in terms of extraction yield (2.0%, 1.46% and 4.51%, respectively), chemical composition (fatty acids, tocopherols, sterols, astaxanthin) and thermal stability. Based on lipid fractionation, PL-AS presented 85% phospholipids, while neutral lipids were mostly present in HxSE (75%) and free FA in AcSE (34%), the latter suggesting significant fat hydrolysis. Palmitic, oleic, eicosapentaenoic (EPA) and docosahexaenoic (DHA) acids predominated in the phospholipid fraction of PL-AS, mainly constituted by phosphatidylcholine (PC) (96%). The most abundant phospholipid was identified at m/z 760.59, composed of PC, with C16:0/C18:1 as the most probable FA combination. Unilamellar spherical liposomes were successfully made of PL-AS (approximate to 140 nm, 0.248 PDI, -68.5 mV zeta potential), showing high stability for 28 days at 4 degrees C.

Automated summary

Phospholipids rich in omega-3 fatty acids from Argentine red shrimp waste were used to produce food-grade liposomes. The phospholipid fraction presented high stability and mainly consisted of phosphatidylcholine (PC) with a combination of different fatty acids. The resulting liposomes were approximately 140 nm in size, with high stability for 28 days at 4 degrees Celsius.