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Can algae contribute to the war with Covid-19?
Wen Yi Chia1, Hanz Kok1, Kit Wayne Chew2,3
1Department of Chemical and Environmental Engineering, Faculty of Science and Engineering, University of Nottingham Malaysia, Semenyih, Selangor Darul Ehsan, Malaysia.
Bioengineered
|April 16, 2021
Summary
Algae show promise in fighting Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19). Their compounds may treat severe symptoms and aid in developing vaccines and test kits to combat the virus.
Area of Science:
- Marine Biology
- Biotechnology
- Virology
Background:
- The COVID-19 pandemic poses significant medical, sociological, and economic challenges globally.
- The virus has caused millions of deaths worldwide, with mortality rates projected to rise.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the potential of algae in combating the spread and impact of COVID-19.
- To explore algal compounds for treating severe COVID-19 symptoms and developing medical countermeasures.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of studies on algal compounds tested against viruses.
- Analysis of research on anti-inflammatory properties of algae.
- Investigation into algae's potential for producing value-added products.
Main Results:
- Algal compounds have demonstrated antiviral properties.
- Algal anti-inflammatory agents show potential for managing severe COVID-19 symptoms.
- Algae can be utilized for producing serological test kits, vaccines, and supplements.
Conclusions:
- Algae offer a promising resource for developing strategies against SARS-CoV-2.
- Microalgae can contribute to the manufacturing of green, high-value products for pandemic control.
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