Nur Ermawati, Khafid Mahbub, Sri Mumpuni Yuniarsih, Kharisma Wido Wiranti, Felicia Aurelia Octaviani

Antioxidant Potential of Crab Shell Extract (Portunus pelagicus) from Pekalongan, Central Jawa, Indonesia

Introduction

Antioxidant potential of crab shell extract (portunus pelagicus) from pekalongan, central jawa, indonesia. Discover the antioxidant potential of Portunus pelagicus crab shell extract from Pekalongan. Research shows weak activity and terpenoids, suggesting optimized extraction for nutraceuticals.

Abstract

Free radicals contribute to oxidative stress, which plays a key role in degenerative diseases. Antioxidants neutralize free radicals, preventing cellular damage. This study evaluates the antioxidant activity of Portunus pelagicus shell extract from Wonokerto, Pekalongan Regency, using the 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) method. Extraction was performed through demineralization, deproteinization, and maceration with virgin coconut oil. Phytochemical analysis confirmed the presence of terpenoids, which are known for their antioxidant properties, but Thin Layer Chromatography (TLC) did not detect astaxanthin. Antioxidant activity testing at concentrations of 5, 10, 50, and 100 ppm resulted in an IC50 value of 549.40 ppm, indicating very weak antioxidant potential. The absence of astaxanthin and the weak activity may be due to extraction method limitations, solvent choice, or low concentrations of active compounds. These findings highlight the need for optimized extraction techniques to enhance the bioactive potential of crab shell-derived compounds. This study contributes to marine biowaste utilization and provides insights into improving antioxidant properties for pharmaceutical and nutraceutical applications.

Review

The study titled "Antioxidant Potential of Crab Shell Extract (Portunus pelagicus) from Pekalongan, Central Jawa, Indonesia" addresses a highly relevant and timely topic concerning the valorization of marine biowaste. Given the increasing global interest in natural antioxidants to mitigate oxidative stress and prevent degenerative diseases, investigating underutilized resources such as crab shells is a commendable endeavor. The authors clearly aimed to evaluate the antioxidant activity of *Portunus pelagicus* shell extract, specifically sourced from the Pekalongan region, employing the well-established 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radical scavenging method. The detailed description of the extraction process, which involved demineralization, deproteinization, and maceration with virgin coconut oil, coupled with phytochemical screening, establishes a clear experimental design. A central finding of this research is the relatively weak antioxidant potential exhibited by the crab shell extract, evidenced by an IC50 value of 549.40 ppm, which the authors themselves accurately categorize as "very weak." While phytochemical analysis did confirm the presence of terpenoids, a class of compounds known for antioxidant properties, the absence of astaxanthin – often a significant contributor to antioxidant activity in crustaceans – was noted via Thin Layer Chromatography. The authors provide plausible explanations for these outcomes, attributing the weak activity and astaxanthin absence to potential limitations in the extraction method, the choice of solvent, or inherently low concentrations of active compounds in the specific extract. This transparent reporting of results, even when they do not indicate high activity, is a strength of the study, as it accurately reflects the experimental outcome and prevents over-interpretation. Despite the modest antioxidant activity observed, this study provides valuable preliminary insights and a critical foundation for subsequent investigations. The authors correctly identify the immediate need for optimized extraction techniques and alternative solvent systems to enhance the bioactive potential of compounds derived from *Portunus pelagicus* shells. Future research could explore different fractionation methods, enzymatic hydrolysis, or various processing techniques that might liberate or concentrate active compounds. While the current findings suggest limited direct pharmaceutical or nutraceutical application, the work significantly contributes to the broader understanding of marine biowaste utilization and underscores that effective valorization often requires meticulous process optimization. This study serves as an important stepping stone, guiding subsequent efforts towards unlocking the full antioxidant or other beneficial properties of this abundant marine resource.

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