Marine Bioactive Compounds from Functional Seafoods: Pharmacological Mechanisms and Health Applications

Area of Science:

• Marine Biology
• Nutritional Science
• Pharmacology

Background:

• Functional seafoods from fish, shellfish, and algae are increasingly recognized for bioactive compounds.
• These compounds, including omega-3 fatty acids, peptides, and antioxidants, provide health benefits beyond basic nutrition.
• Marine-derived compounds are investigated for chronic disease prevention and management.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review current knowledge on functional seafoods.
• To emphasize pharmacological mechanisms and clinical applications.
• To highlight the need for interdisciplinary research for optimizing health benefits and commercial potential.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of functional seafoods and their bioactive compounds.
• Analysis of biotechnological advancements in seafood enhancement.
• Examination of sustainable aquaculture practices and associated challenges.

Main Results:

• Functional seafood compounds exhibit anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and immunomodulatory activities.
• Biotechnology enhances nutritional and pharmacological value; sustainable aquaculture addresses environmental concerns.
• Challenges include regulatory issues, scalability, and limited understanding of bioavailability and long-term effects.

Conclusions:

• Functional seafoods hold significant potential for health promotion and disease management.
• Interdisciplinary research, precision aquaculture, waste valorisation, and traceability are crucial for future development.
• Addressing current challenges is essential for realizing the full commercial and health potential of functional seafoods.