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

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.