Synergy of Analytical Characterization and Biocompatible\nExtractions for the Enhancement of High-Quality Biorefinery Products\nfrom Medicago sativa

This study presents the development\nof an analytical characterization\nstrategy tailored to end products derived from an alfalfa (Medicago sativa)-based biorefinery with particular\nemphasis on protein concentrates and phenolic-enriched fractions.\nOur approach began with a comprehensive full-factorial experimental\ndesign aimed at optimizing the extraction process, taking care to\ndesign a biocompatible extraction protocol. Liquid chromatography\nwith tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) techniques were used to characterize\nthe molecular profile of the extracts. In particular, the extracts\nshowed a significant relative abundance of flavonoids and isoflavonoids\nin both their aglycone and glycosylated forms, in which antioxidant\nactivity was evaluated. In addition, we elucidated the proteomic profiles\nof the protein concentrates. This proteomic characterization served\nas a valuable resource for understanding the differences between these\nend products, providing insights that can guide informed decisions\nabout their potential applications.