Modelling strategies for new product development from seaweed : a metabolomics approach with Laminaria hyperborea.

Abstract

This PhD project explored the potential for new product development in L. hyperborea through a better understanding of the metabolic differences in the tissues and co-products available from the bespoke industrial processing method developed by Marine Biopolymers Ltd to extract high quality alginates. Through application of previously developed methods and the development of new metabolomic approaches, the diversity of components present in the different co products and tissues was established. This contributes to the paucity of knowledge available on this seaweed and provides methods that could be applicable to other species. For the first time, through MS-based metabolomic analysis, this project delivered knowledge on the complex metabolic profiles of L. hyperborea and how they differ in its different tissues and associated co-products and over different harvest seasons. These profiles included components previously known to be present in L. hyperborea but also a number of novel components. In addition, a better understanding of the carbohydrate and fatty acid composition of this industrially important seaweed was achieved. In particular, the substantial variation in fucoidan and laminarin composition noted between different tissues, co-products and extraction methods has not been reported before. In conclusion, this thesis provides novel information that contributes to our understanding of the biology of L. hyperborea but also contributes towards the development of new strategies for valorisation of the co-products and tissues available from the industrial processing of this seaweed for alginate production, which may lead to more value for the company and less wasted biomass.