From Invasion to Biomaterial: Extraction and Comprehensive Characterization of Type I Collagen from the Invasive Gibel Carp (Carassius gibelio) Skins by Different Methods

Abstract

Driven by the escalating global demand for biopolymers, this study investigates the strategic potential of aquatic collagen as a superior alternative to conventional bovine and porcine sources. The research specifically focuses on extracting Type I collagen from the skin of Carassius gibelio (Prussian carp), an invasive species that threatens ecological stability in European and Turkish freshwater ecosystems. By evaluating three distinct extraction methodologies—Alcalase-assisted (A), pepsin-assisted (B), and phosphate-based (C)—the study analyzes their impact on yield, purity, and structural integrity. Characterization through pH analysis, SDS-PAGE, DSC, and SEM confirms that C. gibelio provides high-quality collagen suitable for biomedical and nutritional applications. Furthermore, the results demonstrate that extraction parameters can be tailored to modulate surface morphology and solubility.