Marine Algae As A Prospective Source For Antidiabetic Compounds - A Brief Review

Area of Science:

• Marine Biology
• Pharmacology
• Biochemistry

Background:

• Diabetes Mellitus (DM) is a metabolic disorder causing hyperglycemia and severe complications.
• Current DM treatments like oral antidiabetic drugs and insulin have limitations and side effects.
• There is a need for safe and effective antidiabetic agents, driving research into natural sources.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the antidiabetic potential of marine algae (seaweeds).
• To highlight compounds from marine algae for managing diabetes and its complications.
• To explore marine algae as a source for novel antidiabetic drug discovery.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of studies on marine algae with antidiabetic activity.
• Analysis of reported mechanisms of action for algal-derived compounds.
• Compilation of data on specific marine algae species and their bioactive compounds.

Main Results:

• Marine algae, particularly brown and red varieties, exhibit significant antidiabetic properties.
• Algal compounds effectively manage blood glucose by inhibiting carbohydrate-hydrolyzing enzymes and protein tyrosine phosphatase 1B.
• Other mechanisms include insulin sensitization, enhanced glucose uptake, and protection against diabetic complications.

Conclusions:

• Marine algae represent a valuable resource for developing new therapeutic strategies against diabetes.
• Compounds isolated from marine algae show promise for managing diabetes and associated health issues.
• Further research into unexplored marine algae can lead to high-value biomedical discoveries for diabetes treatment.