Dunaliella salina is a type of halophile pink micro-algae especially found in sea salt fields. Known for its anti-oxidant activity because of its ability to create large amount of carotenoids, it is used in cosmetics and dietary supplements. Few organisms can survive in such highly saline conditions as salt evaporation ponds. To survive, these organisms have high concentrations of β-carotene to protect against the intense light and high concentrations of glycerol to provide protection against osmotic pressure. This offers an opportunity for commercial biological production of these substances. It produces a distinct pink and red colour often characteristic of saltern ponds. D. salina has adapted to survive in high salinity environments by accumulating glycerol to balance osmotic pressure.
D. salina is also adapted to solar radiation using β-carotene to protect against ionizing energy. This combination offers potential in biotechnological applications for the purpose of commercial products such as lipstick due to β-carotene production. In addition, the role of glycerol in D. salina as a key organic compatible solute has been used as a research model. Research has shown microalgae such as Dunaliella Salina to be the most nutrient-dense food on earth, with minimal digestible structures in contrast to higher plants or animals or microalgae with hard cell walls.
Research has proven that carotenoids have antioxidant, anticarcinogenic, and immune enhancing properties. Dunaliella Salina microalgae contain the powerful carotenoid family alpha and beta carotene, lutein, zeaxanthin and cryptoxanthin. This powerhouse combination protects against free radical cell damage responsible for premature aging, cataracts, cardiovascular disease, and other chronic diseases.
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| image of D.Salina under microscope |
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| cross-section of D.Salina |
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