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Marine Algae-Derived Bioactive Compounds Stabilizing Collagen-Rich Dental Matrices Through Matrix Metalloproteinase
Won Sek Lee1, Sung-Ae Son2, Yong-Il Kim1,3
1Dental and Life Science Institute, School of Dentistry, Pusan National University, Yangsan 50612, Republic of Korea.
Marine Drugs
|February 26, 2026
Summary
Marine algae compounds show promise for dental applications. Certain algae derivatives stabilize collagen and inhibit matrix metalloproteinases (MMP), while others enhance tooth enamel remineralization, offering potential for improved dental hard tissue health.
Area of Science:
- Marine biotechnology
- Biomaterials science
- Dental research
Background:
- Marine algae are rich sources of bioactive compounds with diverse pharmacological properties.
- Dental hard tissues are susceptible to degradation and demineralization.
- Understanding marine algae's potential in dental applications is an emerging research area.
Purpose of the Study:
- To systematically review and map the evidence on marine algae-derived bioactive compounds.
- To focus on their biological activities relevant to dental hard tissues: collagen stabilization, matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) inhibition, and enamel remineralization.
- To identify potential applications in dentistry.
Main Methods:
- A scoping review of four electronic databases (PubMed, Scopus, Embase, Web of Science).
- Inclusion of original experimental studies on human or animal dental hard tissues.
- Systematic search and data extraction based on a predefined protocol.
Main Results:
- Nine studies met the inclusion criteria.
- Brown algae derivatives (fucoxanthin, fucosterol, phloroglucinol) showed significant MMP inhibition and collagen cross-linking, enhancing matrix stability.
- Red algae extracts (e.g., Lithothamnion calcareum) promoted enamel remineralization, comparable to sodium fluoride.
- Alginate demonstrated potential as a biomaterial scaffold due to hydroxyapatite adsorption.
Conclusions:
- Marine algae-derived compounds possess significant biological activities relevant to dental hard tissues.
- These compounds can modulate collagen stability, inhibit MMPs, and promote enamel remineralization.
- Marine algae represent a promising source for novel dental biomaterials and therapeutics, warranting further clinical validation.
