Deep-eutectic-solvent-based ultrasound-assisted extraction of polysaccharides from maca: Optimization using Taguchi methodology and comparison with the conventional method

Abstract

Deep eutectic solvent (DES) was used for the ultrasound-assisted extraction (UAE) of polysaccharides from maca. Extraction parameters affecting the extraction yield were experimentally identified and their significance was further investigated using the Taguchi method. DES prepared from choline chloride and urea afforded the highest yield (20.03%) and was chosen as the solvent for UAE. The optimal extraction parameters were: water content of 30% for DES, ultrasonic power of 300 W, and extraction time of 20. The extraction yield (26.28%) of maca polysaccharides (MPs) obtained using these extraction parameters was more than twice that of MPs obtained by hot-water extraction and UAE with water. Moreover, MPs obtained through DES-based extraction exhibited various biological functions such as inhibiting pancreatic α-amylase and α-glucosidase activities, delaying absorption of glucose and bile acid, and stimulating the probiotic. Therefore, DES can be used to extract polysaccharides from maca with biological action as a highly efficient and non-polluting alternative solvent.