Chimica nella Scuola

Percorsi laboratoriali per la Scuola Secondaria di secondo grado

Vol. 1 No. 1 (2026): Chimica nella Scuola n. 1 2026

Estrazione e studio della ficocianina da Spirulina platensis:un’esperienza di didattica laboratoriale

  • Anna Maria Madaio
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.1473/09adwf02
Submitted
2 April 2026
Published
7 April 2026

Abstract

Phycocyanin, extracted from the cyanobacterium Spirulina platensis, is a phycobiliprotein pigment known for its antioxidant properties and for its use as a natural colorant in the nutraceutical and cosmetic fields. This work describes an experimental pathway carried out by students of a technical institute with a specialization in “Chemistry and Materials,” aimed at studying the characteristics of cyanobacteria and the stages of extraction, purification, and characterization of phycocyanin, as well as the investigation of its denaturation induced by chemical agents. The experience provided students with a comprehensive educational pathway, promoting active learning and problem-solving skills, and promoting the development of competencies in autonomous management of experimental work, critical interpretation of data, and understanding of the relationship between protein structure, stability, and function.

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