Scale-up process for pigment-free protein extraction from plants
Developing a scalable process to extract pigment-free proteins from plants using optimized column chromatography and resin-based methods. This innovative approach removes brownish pigments, enhancing protein purity and quality for various applications.
Overview
The proposed solution is a scalable technology for extracting pigment-free proteins from plants. This method employs column chromatography and resin-based chemical replacement reactions to remove brownish quinone and quinoidal compounds from plant proteins. By eliminating these pigments, the process significantly enhances the purity and visual appeal of protein extracts, making them more suitable for food and pharmaceutical applications.
Technical specifications
- Column Chromatography: Utilizes specially identified resins for effective separation of brownish pigments from proteins. This method has been optimized to ensure complete removal of unwanted pigments.
- Resin-Based Methods: Involves the use of resins that bind with brownish pigments, facilitating their removal during the extraction process.
- Scale-Up Plan: Initial lab-scale proof of concept achieved at 0.5 grams. The plan includes scaling up to 1 kg protein production, testing column-free methods, and using FDA or EU approved food-grade resins for safe application.
Technology readiness level
The current technology readiness level is 4, indicating that the technology has been validated in a laboratory setting. Future plans involve scaling the process for larger production volumes and testing food-grade materials for commercial application.
About North Carolina State University
North Carolina State University is a large, comprehensive public land‑grant research university in Raleigh. Its on‑campus research and technology park co‑locates corporate R&D groups, government partners, and faculty labs, enabling shared facilities, prototyping, and agile contracting. Located in North Carolina’s Research Triangle, partners tap a dense regional ecosystem while engaging through a statewide extension network and a mature co‑op program that deliver field deployment and workforce pipelines. Multiple pilot and demonstration facilities support scale‑up and validation toward pre‑commercial readiness. Research is supported by competitive funding from major federal agencies, including NSF, USDA, DOE, and DOD, and a dedicated technology transfer office with clear IP pathways helps accelerate commercialization.
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