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Updated: Jul 5, 2025
Author Spotlight: Exploring Seaweed's Bioactive Compounds for Sustainable Innovations in Industries
Published on: November 21, 2023
From Ocean to Medicine: Harnessing Seaweed's Potential for Drug Development
João Cotas1, Silvia Lomartire1, Ana M M Gonçalves1,2
1Marine Resources, Conservation and Technology, Marine Algae Lab, CFE-Centre for Functional Ecology: Science for People & Planet, Department of Life Sciences, University of Coimbra, 3000-456 Coimbra, Portugal.
Seaweed nutrients offer promising therapeutic potential for drug discovery and product development. This review highlights their bioactive compounds, pharmacological activities, and formulation strategies for pharmaceutical and nutraceutical applications.
Area of Science:
- Marine Biology
- Pharmacology
- Nutraceutical Science
Background:
- Seaweed, a diverse group of marine algae, is rich in nutrients and bioactive compounds.
- These compounds possess significant nutritional value and are recognized as nutraceutical ingredients.
- Seaweed is an abundant source of vitamins, minerals, polysaccharides, polyphenols, and unique secondary metabolites.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the potential of seaweed-derived nutrients in drug discovery and innovative product development.
- To review the pharmacological properties and therapeutic applications of seaweed bioactive compounds.
- To discuss formulation strategies, challenges, and opportunities for integrating seaweed into pharmaceutical and nutraceutical industries.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of scientific studies on seaweed composition and bioactivity.
- Analysis of pharmacological properties, including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and anticancer activities.
- Examination of formulation and delivery system development for seaweed compounds.
Main Results:
- Seaweed compounds exhibit a wide range of biological activities with therapeutic potential.
- Identified pharmacological properties include antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and anticancer effects.
- Insights into formulation strategies for enhancing bioavailability and stability of seaweed-derived compounds.
Conclusions:
- Seaweed represents a valuable reservoir for drug leads and innovative product development.
- Integration into pharmaceutical and nutraceutical industries requires addressing formulation, regulatory, and sustainability challenges.
- Holistic approaches are needed to harness seaweed's potential for sustainable and innovative solutions.
