Modulatory effects of marine algae-derived natural products on nervous system

The pathological changes in neurodegenerative diseases are complicated and involve oxidative stress, neuroinflammation, protein misfolding, and synaptic loss. Marine algae contain a wide range of diverse natural compounds, such as polysaccharides, phenolics, terpenoids, and pigments, some of which may help preserve neurons by targeting oxidative pathways, dampening inflammatory responses, and preventing toxic protein aggregation.

This review aims to recapitulate current advances on the regulatory roles of marine algae-derived natural products on nervous system. In addition, representative compounds are discussed, together with the relationship between their structures and neuroprotective properties.

To conduct this structured narrative review, we collected relevant literature obtained from PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, and Google Scholar up to June 2026. Relevant studies on the effect of algal products on neuroprotection were selected and articles were searched using terms that covered marine algae, natural products, neurodegenerative diseases, and structure-activity relationship.

Natural products found in marine algae may support neuronal protection through the modulation of redox balance, inflammatory signaling, and proteostasis. Their neuroprotective activities are closely associated with structural determinants, and are intrinsically shaped by characteristics like sulfation degree, molecular weight, hydroxyl groups, and conjugated systems.

This article underscores the potential of these products for neuroprotective interventions, and further studies are warranted to clarify their bioavailability and clinical efficacy.