Microalgal Active Peptides: Advances in Preparation, Efficacy, and Mechanisms of Hypoglycemic Action

The escalating global prevalence of diabetes, marked by a troubling rise in younger demographics, imposes a substantial public health burden. Although current pharmacological interventions are effective, they are frequently constrained by adverse side effects and inherent pharmacological limitations. Microalgal bioactive peptides possess high protein content and sustainable production capacity. They exhibit a broad spectrum of bioactivities. Consequently, they are positioned as safe and effective candidates for glycemic regulation. Compared to conventional drugs, microalgal peptides present distinct advantages in sustainability and safety profiles. This review systematically consolidates current knowledge on microalgal hypoglycemic peptides, commencing with an overview of their resource superiority and potential for sustainable manufacturing. We then detail the evolving methodologies for peptide preparation, purification, and identification. A central focus is placed on elucidating their mechanisms of action, with particular emphasis on α-glucosidase inhibition, as revealed through advanced techniques such as molecular docking. Moreover, we critically assess the persistent challenges that currently impede full commercial translation. These include gaps in mechanistic understanding, bottlenecks in process optimization, and hurdles to industrial scale-up. Finally, future research directions aimed at overcoming these barriers are discussed. This review comprehensively synthesizes the research progress in this field, aiming to provide a reference for the development of microalgal-derived functional ingredients and to accelerate their translational application in diabetes intervention.