Exploring Microalgae as a Novel Resource for Hepatocellular Carcinoma Therapy.

Area of Science:

• Biomedical applications
• Marine biotechnology
• Cancer therapeutics

Background:

• Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a leading cause of cancer mortality globally.
• Current HCC treatments face challenges including limited efficacy and therapeutic resistance due to tumor heterogeneity.
• Novel therapeutic strategies are urgently needed for effective HCC management.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the biomedical potential of microalgae in cancer therapy, specifically for HCC.
• To highlight microalgae as a source of anticancer compounds and a platform for novel therapeutics.
• To explore future directions for microalgae-based HCC treatments.

Main Methods:

• This review synthesizes findings from preclinical studies on microalgae and HCC.
• It examines the unique properties of microalgae, including bioactive metabolites and oxygen-generating capabilities.
• The review discusses biotechnological enhancement and formulation strategies for microalgal therapeutics.

Main Results:

• Preclinical evidence indicates microalgae possess significant chemopreventive and anticancer properties against HCC.
• Microalgae offer a versatile platform for developing next-generation cancer therapeutics.
• Their multifunctional nature supports applications in drug delivery and immunotherapy.

Conclusions:

• Microalgae show considerable promise for developing innovative therapeutic strategies against HCC.
• Biotechnological advancements can enhance the production of microalgal-derived bioactive compounds.
• Future applications include embolic agents and immunotherapy delivery systems for synergistic antitumor effects.