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Bioactive Algal-Derived Polysaccharides: Multi-Functionalization, Therapeutic Potential and Biomedical Applications
Ida Idayu Muhamad1,2, Nabilah Zulkifli2, Suguna A/P Selvakumaran3
1School of Chemical and Energy, Faculty of Engineering, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia, 81310 Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia.
Current Pharmaceutical Design
|July 2, 2019
Summary
Algal polysaccharides are increasingly used in biomaterials due to their beneficial properties. Research focuses on their extraction, characterization, and application in medicine, highlighting their potential as therapeutic agents and drug delivery systems.
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry
- Materials Science
- Marine Biology
Background:
- Polysaccharides with biological activity are gaining interest for novel applications due to their biocompatibility, biodegradability, and therapeutic potential.
- Recent research focuses on developing algal polysaccharides into advanced biomaterials for diverse applications.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the potential of algal-derived polysaccharides as bioactive products and biomaterials.
- To investigate the extraction, purification, and characterization of these polysaccharides for biomedical uses.
Main Methods:
- Saccharide mapping and enzymatic profiling for quality control.
- In vitro and in vivo tests to determine biological activities and toxicity.
- Extraction, purification, chromatographic profiling, and structural analysis of algal polysaccharides.
Main Results:
- Marine algae synthesize sulfated polysaccharides like alginate, carrageenan, ulvan, and fucoidan, rich in cell walls.
- These biopolymers exhibit biocompatibility, biodegradability, and therapeutic potential, including immunomodulatory abilities.
- Algal polysaccharides serve as promising bioactive products and versatile biomaterials for biomedical applications.
Conclusions:
- Algal polysaccharides with defined structures and properties offer new opportunities in medicine.
- They can be exploited as therapeutic agents, such as immunoregulatory agents or drug delivery vehicles.
- Novel strategies can enhance the multi-functionalization of algal polysaccharides for expanded biomedical applications.
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