Bioactive Peptides from Algae: Traditional and Novel Generation Strategies, Structure-Function Relationships, and...

Area of Science:

• Marine biotechnology
• Food science
• Biochemistry

Background:

• Algae are increasingly recognized as sustainable protein sources.
• Algal-derived bioactive peptides show promise for health benefits.
• Research is exploring efficient extraction and application of these peptides.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review emerging processes for generating and isolating bioactive peptides from algae.
• To summarize the biological properties and mechanisms of action of algal peptides.
• To discuss in silico methods and future opportunities for algal peptide research.

Main Methods:

• Physical and biochemical pre-treatments for algal protein extraction.
• Enzymatic hydrolysis and other novel methods for bioactive peptide generation.
• In vitro and in vivo assays for evaluating peptide bioactivity.
• Quantitative Structure-Activity Relationships (QSAR) and molecular docking for peptide identification.

Main Results:

• Algal peptides exhibit significant anti-hypertensive, antioxidant, and anti-cancer properties.
• Structure-function relationships and mechanisms of action are being elucidated.
• In silico tools aid in identifying specific bioactive peptides from algal hydrolysates.

Conclusions:

• Algae represent a valuable and sustainable source of bioactive peptides with diverse health benefits.
• Advanced extraction and in silico methods enhance the identification and application of these peptides.
• Further research is needed to overcome challenges and fully exploit algae's potential in functional foods and pharmaceuticals.