Abstract: Phycobiliproteins are a group of pigment proteins with similar structures, which are formed through a covalent thioether bond between phycobilin and sulfhydryl (－SH) groups in conservative cysteine residues. Due to its fluorescence, phycobiliprotein is widely used in the pharmaceutical industry. In this article, the classification and structure of phycobiliprotein, extraction procedures and purification are described. In addition, the anti-oxidant, anti-inflammatory and antitumor functions of phycobiliprotein as well as corresponding mechanisms are discussed. According to current studies, many efforts still need to be made for seeking potential resources and food functions of phycobiliprotein.

Key words: phycobiliprotein, cell disruption, purification, physiological activity, mechanism