Marine algae-derived bioactive peptides for human nutrition and health

Marine peptides as potential anti-aging agents: Preparation, characterization, mechanisms of action, and future perspectives

Aging is a universal biological process characterized by a decline in physiological functions, leading to increased susceptibility to diseases. With global aging trends, understanding and mitigating the aging process is paramount. Recent studies highlight marine peptides as promising bioactive substances with potential anti-aging properties. This review critically examines the potential of marine peptides as novel food ingredients in anti-aging, exploring their sources, preparation methods, physicochemical properties, and the underlying mechanisms through which they impact the aging process. Marine peptides exhibit significant potential in targeting aging, extending lifespan, and enhancing healthspan. They act through mechanisms such as reducing oxidative stress and inflammation, modulating mitochondrial dysfunction, inducing autophagy, maintaining extracellular matrix homeostasis, and regulating longevity-related pathways. Despite challenges in stability, bioavailability, and scalability, marine peptides offer significant potential in health, nutraceuticals, and pharmaceuticals, warranting further research and development in anti-aging.

Algae-derived compounds: Bioactivity, allergenicity and technologies enhancing their values

As a rapidly growing source of human nutrients, algae biosynthesize diverse metabolites which have promising bioactivities. However, the potential allergenicity of algal components hinder their widespread adoption. This review provides a comprehensive review of various macro and micronutrients derived from algal biomass, with particular focus on bioactive compounds, including peptides, polyphenols, carotenoids, omega-3 fatty acids and phycocyanins. The approaches used to produce algal bioactive compounds and their health benefits (antioxidant, antidiabetic, cardioprotective, anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory) are summarised. This review particularly focuses on the state-of-the-art of precision fermentation, encapsulation, cold plasma, high-pressure processing, pulsed electric field, and subcritical water to reduce the allergenicity of algal compounds while increasing their bioactivity and bioavailability. By providing insights into current challenges of algae-derived compounds and opportunities for advancement, this review contributes to the ongoing discourse on maximizing their application potential in the food nutraceuticals, and pharmaceuticals industries.

Macroalgae-derived bioactive compounds for functional food and pharmaceutical applications-a critical review

The rising demand for global food resources, combined with an overreliance on land-based agroecosystems, poses a significant challenge for the sustainable production of food products. Macroalgae cultivation is a promising approach to mitigate impending global food insecurities due to several key factors: independence from terrestrial farming, rapid growth rates, unique biochemical makeup, and carbon capture potential. Furthermore, macroalgae are rich in vitamins, minerals, essential amino acids, polyunsaturated fatty acids and fiber, demonstrating significant potential as sustainable alternatives for enhancing dietary diversity and fulfilling nutritional requirements. This review provides an overview of the nutritional composition and functional properties of commercially cultivated macroalgae species, with emphasis on their viability as value additions to the functional food market. Furthermore, the review discusses the technological aspects of integrating macroalgae into food products, covering both innovative solutions and existing challenges. Macroalgae, beyond being nutritional powerhouses, contain a plethora of bioactive compounds with varied biological activities, including anti-diabetic, anti-cancer, cardioprotective, and neuroprotective properties, making them excellent candidates in developing novel pharmaceuticals. Thus, this review also summarizes the pharmaceutical applications of macroalgae, identifies research gaps and proposes potential strategies for incorporating macroalgae-derived bioactive compounds into therapeutic products.

Bioinspired Synthesis of Allysine for Late-Stage Functionalization of Peptides

Inspired by the enzyme lysyl oxidase, which selectively converts the side chain of lysine into allysine, an aldehyde-containing post-translational modification, we report herein the first chemical method for the synthesis of allysine by selective oxidation of dimethyl lysine. This approach is highly chemoselective for dimethyl lysine on proteins. We highlight the utility of this biomimetic approach for generating aldehydes in a variety of pharmaceutically active linear and cyclic peptides at a late stage for their diversification with various affinity and fluorescent tags. Notably, we utilized this approach for generating small-molecule aldehydes from the corresponding tertiary amines. We further demonstrated the potential of this approach in generating cellular models for studying allysine-associated diseases.

Algae as a potential source of protein meat alternatives

With the rise of plant-based meat alternatives, there is a growing need for sustainable and nutritious sources of protein. Alga is a rich protein source, and initial studies show that it can be a good component in developing protein meat alternatives. However, there are certain limitations in their use as the need for efficient and optimal technical process in large-scale protein extraction and purification, as well as overcoming certain negative effects such as potentially harmful compounds, allergenicity issues, or sensorial affections, especially in color but also in textural and flavor characteristics. This review offers a vision of the fledgling research about using alga protein in the development of meat alternatives or supplementing meat products.

Antioxidant, Collagenase Inhibitory, and Antibacterial Effects of Bioactive Peptides Derived from Enzymatic Hydrolysate of Ulva australis

The protein extract of Ulva australis hydrolyzed with Alcalase and Flavourzyme was found to have multi-functional properties, including total antioxidant capacity (TAC), collagenase inhibitory, and antibacterial activities. The #5 fraction (SP5) and #7 fraction (SP7) of U. australis hydrolysate from cation-exchange chromatography displayed significantly high TAC, collagenase inhibitory, and antibacterial effects against Propionibacterium acnes, and only the Q3 fraction from anion-exchange chromatography displayed high multi-functional activities. Eight of 42 peptides identified by MALDI-TOF/MS and Q-TOF/MS/MS were selected from the results for screening with molecular docking on target proteins and were then synthesized. Thr-Gly-Thr-Trp (TGTW) displayed ABTS [2,2'-azino-bis (3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid)] radical scavenging activity. The effect of TAC as Trolox equivalence was dependent on the concentration of TGTW. Asn-Arg-Asp-Tyr (NRDY) and Arg-Asp-Arg-Phe (RDRF) exhibited collagenase inhibitory activity, which increased according to the increase in concentration, and their IC50 values were 0.95 mM and 0.84 mM, respectively. Peptides RDRF and His-Ala-Val-Tyr (HAVY) displayed anti-P. Acnes effects, with IC50 values of 8.57 mM and 13.23 mM, respectively. These results suggest that the U. australis hydrolysate could be a resource for the application of effective nutraceuticals and cosmetics.

Beneficial effects of seaweed-derived components on metabolic syndrome via gut microbiota modulation

Metabolic syndrome comprises a group of conditions that collectively increase the risk of abdominal obesity, diabetes, atherosclerosis, cardiovascular diseases, and cancer. Gut microbiota is involved in the pathogenesis of metabolic syndrome, and microbial diversity and function are strongly affected by diet. In recent years, epidemiological evidence has shown that the dietary intake of seaweed can prevent metabolic syndrome via gut microbiota modulation. In this review, we summarize the current in vivo studies that have reported the prevention and treatment of metabolic syndrome via seaweed-derived components by regulating the gut microbiota and the production of short-chain fatty acids. Among the surveyed related articles, animal studies revealed that these bioactive components mainly modulate the gut microbiota by reversing the Firmicutes/Bacteroidetes ratio, increasing the relative abundance of beneficial bacteria, such as Bacteroides, Akkermansia, Lactobacillus, or decreasing the abundance of harmful bacteria, such as Lachnospiraceae, Desulfovibrio, Lachnoclostridium. The regulated microbiota is thought to affect host health by improving gut barrier functions, reducing LPS-induced inflammation or oxidative stress, and increasing bile acid production. Furthermore, these compounds increase the production of short-chain fatty acids and influence glucose and lipid metabolism. Thus, the interaction between the gut microbiota and seaweed-derived bioactive components plays a critical regulatory role in human health, and these compounds have the potential to be used for drug development. However, further animal studies and human clinical trials are required to confirm the functional roles and mechanisms of these components in balancing the gut microbiota and managing host health.

Exploring the therapeutic efficacy of Chlorella pyrenoidosa peptides in ameliorating Alzheimer's disease

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is one of the neurodegenerative disorders, the hallmarks of which include deposits of extracellular beta-amyloid (Aβ) as well as intracellular tau neurofibrillary tangles (NFTs) tangles. With disease progression, neuronal apoptosis combined with cerebral atrophy occurs, leading to cognitive impairment and long-term memory loss. Recently, Chlorella species have been identified as a functional food and are being explored for the prevention of various diseases widely studied to prevent or treat many neurodegenerative diseases. Hence, we for the first time investigated the neuroprotective effects of Chlorella pyrenoidosa short-chain peptides (CPPs) i.e. <1 kDa, 1-3 kDa, 3-10 kDa, and >10 kDa on the in vitro and in vivo neuronal injury models. Our in vitro results showed that CPP with a molecular weight of 1-3 kDa and 3-10 kDa could elevate the survival rate of Aβ_1-42 or l-Glutamic acid-injured N2A cells. These treatments also inhibited Aβ and tau NFTs in N2A cells and prevented progressive neuronal cellular damage by suppressing inflammatory cytokines such as PGE2, iNOS, IL-6, TNF-α, COX-2, IL-1β, TGF-β1, and NF-κB. Further, our in vivo Aβ_1-42-induced AD mice model demonstrated that 1-3 kDa or 3-10 kDa CPP could improve spatial cognition and learning memory. We also observed a decreased cell loss ratio in CA1-CA3 hippocampal regions. Taken together, our findings imply that CPPs may exert their anti-AD impact through anti-inflammatory, and anti-amyloid activities via reducing APP and tau NFT.

Carbon nanosheets to unravel the production of bioactive compounds from microalgae: A robust approach in drug discovery

The conglomeration of active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) has influenced the development of life-saving drugs. These APIs are customarily synthetic products, albeit with adverse side effects. Thus, to overcome the bottlenecks associated with synthetically derived APIs, the approach of photocatalytically obtaining bioactive compounds from natural ingredients has emerged. Amid the pool of photoactive nanomaterials, this short review emphasizes the intelligent strategy of exploiting photoactive carbon nanosheets to photocatalytically derive bioactive compounds from natural algal biomass to treat many acute or chronic medical conditions. Carbon nanosheets result in phototrophic harvesting of bioactive compounds from microalgae as a result of their being an effective biocatalyst that increases the rate of photosynthesis. To understand the clinical translation of bioactive compounds, the pharmacodynamics of algal bioactive compounds are highlighted to determine the practicality and feasibility of using this green approach for pharmaceutical drug discovery.

Green Antimicrobials as Therapeutic Agents for Diabetic Foot Ulcers

Diabetic foot ulcers (DFU) are one of the most serious and devastating complications of diabetes and account for a significant decrease in quality of life and costly healthcare expenses worldwide. This condition affects around 15% of diabetic patients and is one of the leading causes of lower limb amputations. DFUs generally present poor clinical outcomes, mainly due to the impaired healing process and the elevated risk of microbial infections which leads to tissue damage. Nowadays, antimicrobial resistance poses a rising threat to global health, thus hampering DFU treatment and care. Faced with this reality, it is pivotal to find greener and less environmentally impactful alternatives for fighting these resistant microbes. Antimicrobial peptides are small molecules that play a crucial role in the innate immune system of the host and can be found in nature. Some of these molecules have shown broad-spectrum antimicrobial properties and wound-healing activity, making them good potential therapeutic compounds to treat DFUs. This review aims to describe antimicrobial peptides derived from green, eco-friendly processes that can be used as potential therapeutic compounds to treat DFUs, thereby granting a better quality of life to patients and their families while protecting our fundamental bio-resources.

A comprehensive review on algal nutraceuticals as prospective therapeutic agent for different diseases

Ongoing research in the food supplement sector provides insightful information regarding algae as a new-generation nutritional supplement and is also referred to as a superfood. Due to the diverse nutritional components, algae have documented numerous health benefits like fighting microbial diseases, hypertension, obesity, and diabetes. Therefore, algae-derived nutraceuticals account for a rapidly expanding market in the food supplements sector. The concept of algal prebiotics and their role in modulating gut microbiota have also been a chief contributor to this. This review evaluates the use of possible algal species and their specific bioactive compounds for the management of several chronic diseases. Proteins, peptides, polysaccharides, phenolics, and vitamins give an insight into the significance of algae in boosting the immune system and improving the body's nutritional makeup. In addition, phyco-compounds such as polysaccharides and polyphenols are also receiving a lot more interest in cosmeceutical applications for protecting skin from photodamage. The incorporation of algae in the diet for the management and prevention of chronic diseases like cancer, lung, and heart disease has been discussed in this review along with their action mechanism. This review provides a brief overview of several bioactive compounds present in micro and macroalgae and their therapeutic effect on lifestyle diseases, gastrointestinal diseases as well as neurodegenerative diseases.

Exploring the Role of Carbon-Based Nanomaterials in Microalgae for the Sustainable Production of Bioactive Compounds and Beyond

An enchanting yet challenging task is the development of higher productivity in plants to meet the ample food demands for the growing global population while harmonizing the ecosystem using front-line technologies. This has kindled the practice of green microalgae cultivation as a driver of key biostimulant products, targeting agronomic needs. To this end, a prodigious and economical strategy for producing bioactive compounds (sources of secondary metabolites) from microalgae using carbon-based nanomaterials (CNMs) as a platform can circumvent these hurdles. Recently, the nanobionics approach of incorporating CNMs with living systems has emerged as a promising technique to develop organelles with new and augmented functions. Herein, we discuss the importance of 2D carbon nanosheets (CNS) as an alternative carbon source for the phototrophic cultivation of microalgae. CNS not only aids in cost reduction for algal cultivation but also confers combinatorial innate or exogenous functions that enhance its programmed biosynthetic metabolism, proliferation, or tolerance to stress. Moreover, the inherent ability of CNS to act as efficient biocatalysts can enhance the rate of photosynthesis. The primary focus of this mini-review is the development of an economic route for enhanced yield of bioactive compounds while simultaneously serving as a heterogeneous platform for enhancing the sustainable production of biostimulants including bioactive compounds from algal biomass for pharmaceutical and nutraceutical applications.

Antioxidant Peptides From Protein Hydrolysate of Marine Red Algae Eucheuma cottonii: Preparation, Identification, and Cytoprotective Mechanisms on H2O2 Oxidative Damaged HUVECs

To screen, prepare, identify, and evaluate the activities of natural antioxidants for treating chronic diseases caused by oxidative stress. Two algal proteins, namely ZD10 and ZD60, precipitated with 10 and 60% (NH₄)₂SO₄ were extracted from red algae Eucheuma cottonii (E. cottonii) and hydrolyzed using five proteolytic enzymes. The results showed that ZD60 played the most significant role in the enhancement of 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl radical (DPPH⋅) scavenging activity (25.91 ± 0.24%) among all protein hydrolysates. Subsequently, six antioxidant peptides (EP1-EP6) were isolated from the papain hydrolysate of ZD60 by ultrafiltration and chromatography methods. Their amino acid sequences were identified as Thr-Ala (EP1), Met-Asn (EP2), Tyr-Ser-Lys-Thr (EP3), Tyr-Ala-Val-Thr (EP4), Tyr-Leu-Leu (EP5), and Phe-Tyr-Lys-Ala (EP6) with molecular weights of 190.21, 263.33, 497.55, 452.51, 407.51, and 527.62 Da, respectively. Of which, EP3, EP4, EP5, and EP6 showed strong scavenging activities on DPPH⋅, hydroxyl radical (HO⋅), and superoxide anion radical (O- 2⋅). Moreover, EP4 and EP5 could significantly protect human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) from H₂O₂-induced oxidative damage by increasing the levels of antioxidant enzyme systems including superoxide dismutase (SOD) and glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) to reduce the levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS) (60.51 and 51.74% of model group) and malondialdehyde (MDA) (75.36 and 64.45% of model group). In addition, EP4 and EP5 could effectively inhibit H₂O₂-induced apoptosis by preventing HUVECs from early apoptosis to late apoptosis. These results indicated that the antioxidant peptides derived from E. cottonii, especially EP4 and EP5, could serve as the natural antioxidants applied in pharmaceutical products to treat chronic cardiovascular diseases caused by oxidative damage, such as coronary heart disease, atherosclerosis, etc.

Exploring Marine as a Rich Source of Bioactive Peptides: Challenges and Opportunities from Marine Pharmacology

This review highlights the underexplored potential and promises of marine bioactive peptides (MBPs) with unique structural, physicochemical, and biological activities to fight against the current and future human pathologies. A particular focus is given to the marine environment as a significant source to obtain or extract high-value MBPs from touched/untouched sources. For instance, marine microorganisms, including microalgae, bacteria, fungi, and marine polysaccharides, are considered prolific sources of amino acids at large, and peptides/polypeptides in particular, with fundamental structural sequence and functional entities of a carboxyl group, amine, hydrogen, and a variety of R groups. Thus, MBPs with tunable features, both structural and functional entities, along with bioactive traits of clinical and therapeutic value, are of ultimate interest to reinforce biomedical settings in the 21st century. On the other front, as the largest biome globally, the marine biome is the so-called "epitome of untouched or underexploited natural resources" and a considerable source with significant potentialities. Therefore, considering their biological and biomedical importance, researchers around the globe are redirecting and/or regaining their interests in valorizing the marine biome-based MBPs. This review focuses on the widespread bioactivities of MBPs, FDA-approved MBPs in the market, sustainable development goals (SDGs), and legislation to valorize marine biome to underlying the impact role of bioactive elements with the related pathways. Finally, a detailed overview of current challenges, conclusions, and future perspectives is also given to satisfy the stimulating demands of the pharmaceutical sector of the modern world.

Assessment of Antioxidant and Anticancer Activities of Microgreen Alga Chlorella vulgaris and Its Blend with Different Vitamins

There is a very vital antioxidant extracted from microgreen alga. Chlorella vulgaris has major advantages and requires high yield worldwide. Some microalgae require vitamins for their growth promotion. This study was held to determine the impact of different vitamins including Thiamine (B1), Riboflavin (B2), Pyridoxine (B6), and Ascorbic acid (c) at concentrations of 0.02, 0.04, 0.06, and 0.08 mg/L of each. Each vitamin was added to the BG11 growth medium to determine the effect on growth, total carbohydrate, total protein, pigments content, antioxidant activities of Chlorella vulgaris. Moreover, antitumor effects of methanol extract of C. vulgaris without and with the supplement of thiamine against Human prostate cancer (PC-3), Hepatocellular carcinoma (HEPG-2), Colorectal carcinoma (HCT-116) and Epitheliod Carcinoma (Hela) was estimated in vitro. C. vulgaris supplemented with various vitamins showed a significant increase in biomass, pigment content, total protein, and total carbohydrates in comparison to the control. Thiamine was the best vitamin influencing as an antioxidant. C. vulgaris supplemented with thiamine had high antitumor effects in vitro. So, it’s necessary to add vitamins to BG11 media for enhancement of the growth and metabolites.

Therapeutic Potential of Seaweed-Derived Bioactive Compounds for Cardiovascular Disease Treatment

Cardiovascular diseases are closely related to hypertension, type 2 diabetes mellitus, obesity, and hyperlipidemia. Many studies have reported that an unhealthy diet and sedentary lifestyle are critical factors that enhance these diseases. Recently, many bioactive compounds isolated from marine seaweeds have been studied for their benefits in improving human health. In particular, several unique bioactive metabolites such as polyphenols, polysaccharides, peptides, carotene, and sterol are the most effective components responsible for these activities. This review summarizes the current in vitro, in vivo, and clinical studies related to the protective effects of bioactive compounds isolated from seaweeds against cardiovascular disorders, including anti-diabetic, anti-hypertensive, anti-hyperlipidemia, and anti-obesity effects. Therefore, this present review summarizes these concepts and provides a basis for further in-depth research.

Antimicrobial Properties of Actively Purified Secondary Metabolites Isolated from Different Marine Organisms

BACKGROUND

The treatment of infection caused by pathogenic bacteria becomes one of the serious concerns globally. The failure in the treatment was found due to the exhibition of multiple resistance mechanisms against the antimicrobial agents. The emergence of resistant bacterial species has also been observed due to prolong treatment using conventional antibiotics. To combat these problems, several alternative strategies have been employed using biological and chemically synthesized compounds as antibacterial agents. Marine organisms are considered as one of the potential sources for the isolation of bioactive compounds due to the easily available, cost-effective, and eco-friendly.

METHODS

The online search methodology was adapted for the collection of information related to the antimicrobial properties of marine-derived compounds. These compound has been isolated and purified by different purification techniques, and their structure also characterized. Furthermore, the antibacterial activities have been reported by using broth microdilution as well as disc diffusion assays.

RESULTS

The present review paper describes the antimicrobial effect of diverse secondary metabolites which are isolated and purified from the different marine organisms. The structural elucidation of each secondary metabolite has also been done in the present paper, which will help for the in silico designing of the novel and potent antimicrobial compounds.

CONCLUSION

A thorough literature search has been made and summarizes the list of antimicrobial compounds that are isolated from both prokaryotic and eukaryotic marine organisms. The information obtained from the present paper will be helpful for the application of marine compounds as antimicrobial agents against different antibiotic-resistant human pathogenic bacteria.

Investigation of Chlorella pyrenoidosa Protein as a Source of Novel Angiotensin I-Converting Enzyme (ACE) and Dipeptidyl Peptidase-IV (DPP-IV) Inhibitory Peptides

Chlorella pyrenoidosa (C. pyrenoidosa) is a microalgae species with a remarkably high protein content that may potentially become a source of hypotensive and hypoglycemic peptides. In this study, C. pyrenoidosa proteins were extracted and hydrolyzed overnight with pepsin and trypsin with final degrees of hydrolysis of 18.7% and 35.5%, respectively. By LC-MS/MS, 47 valid peptides were identified in the peptic hydrolysate (CP) and 66 in the tryptic one (CT). At the concentration of 1.0 mg/mL, CP and CT hydrolysates inhibit in vitro the angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) activity by 84.2 ± 0.37% and 78.6 ± 1.7%, respectively, whereas, tested at cellular level at the concentration of 5.0 mg/mL, they reduce the ACE activity by 61.5 ± 7.7% and 69.9 ± 0.8%, respectively. At the concentration of 5.0 mg/mL, they decrease in vitro the DPP-IV activity by 63.7% and 69.6% and in Caco-2 cells by 38.4% and 42.5%, respectively. Short peptides (≤10 amino acids) were selected for investigating the potential interaction with ACE and DPP-IV by using molecular modeling approaches and four peptides were predicted to block both enzymes. Finally, the stability of these peptides was investigated against gastrointestinal digestion.

Unlocking the Health Potential of Microalgae as Sustainable Sources of Bioactive Compounds

Microalgae are known to produce a plethora of compounds derived from the primary and secondary metabolism. Different studies have shown that these compounds may have allelopathic, antimicrobial, and antipredator activities. In addition, in vitro and in vivo screenings have shown that several compounds have interesting bioactivities (such as antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anticancer, and antimicrobial) for the possible prevention and treatment of human pathologies. Additionally, the enzymatic pathways responsible for the synthesis of these compounds, and the targets and mechanisms of their action have also been investigated for a few species. However, further research is necessary for their full exploitation and possible pharmaceutical and other industrial applications. Here, we review the current knowledge on the chemical characteristics, biological activities, mechanism of action, and the enzymes involved in the synthesis of microalgal metabolites with potential benefits for human health.

A Systemic Review on Microalgal Peptides: Bioprocess and Sustainable Applications

Nowadays, microalgal research is predominantly centered on an industrial scale. In general, multipotent bioactive peptides are the advantages over focal points over utilitarian nourishment as well as nutraceuticals. Microalgal peptides are now profoundly connected with biological properties rather than nutritive. Numerous techniques are employed to purify active peptides from algal protein using enzymatic hydrolysis; it is broadly used for numerous favorable circumstances. There is a chance to utilize microalgal peptides for human well-being as nutritive enhancements. This exhaustive survey details the utilization of microalgal peptides as antioxidant, anti-cancerous, anti-hypersensitive, anti-atherosclerotic, and nutritional functional foods. It is also exploring the novel technologies for the production of active peptides, for instance, the use of algal peptides as food for human health discovered restrictions, where peptides are sensitive to hydrolysis protease degradation. This review emphasizes the issue of active peptides in gastrointestinal transit, which has to be solved in the future, and prompt impacts.

Algal metabolites: An inevitable substitute for antibiotics

Antibiotic resistance is rising at a pace that is difficult to cope with; circumvention of this issue requires fast and efficient alternatives to conventional antibiotics. Algae inhabit a wide span of ecosystems, which contributes to their ability to synthesize diverse classes of highly active biogenic metabolites. Here, for the first time, we reviewed all possible algal metabolites with broad spectra antibacterial activity against pathogenic bacteria, including antibiotic-resistant strains, and categorized different metabolites of both freshwater and marine algae, linking them on the basis of their target sites and mechanistic actions along with their probable nanoconjugates. Algae can be considered a boon for novel drug discovery in the era of antibiotic resistance, as various algal primary and secondary metabolites possess potential antibacterial properties. The diversity of these metabolites from indigenous sources provides a promising gateway enabling researchers and pharmaceutical companies to develop novel nontoxic, cost-effective and highly efficient antibacterial medicines.

Chlorella sp. Protective Effect on Acetaminophen-Induced Liver Toxicity in ICR Mice

Background:

A Chlorella sp. (CLC) has a health supplement in health effects including an ability to treat cancer. The Chlorella sp. Ability to reduce acetaminophen-induced liver injury is still unknown. The hepatoprotective function of CLC was determined in an APAP-induced liver injury mouse model.

Methods:

Male ICR mice were randomly divided into normal control, APAP, APAP + Sm (silymarin) and APAP + CLC (0.2%, 0.5% and 1%) groups. The glutamic oxaloacetic transaminase (GOT), glutamic pyruvic transaminase (GPT), Albumin, and BUN plasma activities were detected using blood biochemistry assay. The hepatic tissue GOT, GPT, superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT) activity were also detected. Lipid peroxidation, MDA, protein expression levels were examined.

Results:

The results showed that the 1% CLC supplementation group and Silymarin (Sm) could significantly alleviate increased serum GOT, GPT and BUN, and the decreased serum Albumin. At the same time, the increased hepatic tissue GOT and GPT activities were alleviated as well as MDA. Enhanced SOD and CAT protein expression levels were increased in APAP-induced liver injury. Lipofuscin and hepatic veins cups disappeared in the Sm and 1% CLC supplementation groups shown with H&E staining.

Conclusions:

Therefore, CLC probably could develop hepatoprotective products against chemical-induced liver damage.

Blue Mussel-Derived Peptides PIISVYWK and FSVVPSPK Trigger Wnt/β-Catenin Signaling-Mediated Osteogenesis in Human Bone Marrow Mesenchymal Stem Cells

Marine-derived bioactive peptides have shown potential bone health promoting effects. Although various marine-derived bioactive peptides have potential nutraceutical or pharmaceutical properties, only a few of them are commercially available. This study presented an osteogenic mechanism of blue mussel-derived peptides PIISVYWK and FSVVPSPK as potential bone health promoting agents in human bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells (hBMMSCs). Alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity and mineralization were stimulated using PIISVYWK and FSVVPSPK as early and late markers of osteogenesis in a concentration-dependent manner. Western blot and RT-qPCR results revealed that PIISVYWK and FSVVPSPK increased osteoblast differentiation of hBMMSCs by activating canonical Wnt/β-catenin signaling-related proteins and mRNAs. Immunofluorescence images confirmed nuclear translocation of β-catenin in osteogenic differentiation. Treatment with the pharmacological inhibitor DKK-1 blocked PIISVYWK- and FSVVPSPK-induced ALP activity and mineralization, as well as mRNA expression of the canonical Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway in hBMMSC differentiation into osteoblasts. These findings suggested that PIISVYWK and FSVVPSPK promoted the canonical Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway in osteogenesis of hBMMSCs. Blue mussel-derived PIISVYWK and FSVVPSPK might help develop peptide-based therapeutic agents for bone-related diseases.

Effects of Tetraselmis chuii Microalgae Supplementation on Ergospirometric, Haematological and Biochemical Parameters in Amateur Soccer Players

This study aimed to analyse the effects of Tetraselmis chuii (TC) microalgae supplementation during thirty days on ergospirometric, haematological and biochemical parameters in amateur soccer players. Thirty-two amateur soccer players divided into a control group (CG; n = 16; 22.36 ± 1.36 years; 68.36 ± 3.53 kg) and a supplemented group (SG; n = 16; 22.23 ± 2.19 years; 69.30 ± 5.56 kg) participated in the double-blind study. SG ingested 200 mg of the TC per day, while CG ingested 200 mg per day of lactose powder. Supplementation was carried out for thirty days. The participants performed a maximal treadmill test until exhaustion. The ergospirometric values at different ventilatory thresholds and haematological values were obtained after the test. Heart rate decreased after supplementation with TC (p < 0.05). Oxygen pulse, relative and absolute maximum oxygen consumption increased in SG (pre vs. post; 19.04 ± 2.53 vs. 22.08 ± 2.25; 53.56 ± 3.26 vs. 56.74 ± 3.43; 3.72 ± 0.35 vs. 3.99 ± 0.25; p < 0.05). Haemoglobin and mean corpuscular haemoglobin increased in SG (pre vs. post; 15.12 ± 0.87 vs. 16.58 ± 0.74 p < 0.01; 28.03 ± 1.57 vs. 30.82 ± 1.21; p < 0.05). On the other hand, haematocrit and mean platelet volume decreased in SG (p < 0.05). TC supplementation elicited improvements in ergospirometric and haematological values in amateur soccer players. TC supplementation could be valuable for improving performance in amateur athletes.

Antinociceptive and Anti-inflammatory Effects of Methanolic Extract of Laurencia caspica

Introduction: Seaweeds are valuable resources for the discovery of efficient and safe drugs for pain treatment. In the present investigation, we evaluated the antinociceptive and anti-inflammatory properties of, methanolic extract of Laurencia caspica, a red algae, in mice models. Methods: The analgesic effect of methanolic extract of L. caspica was assessed by hot-plate and acetic acid-induced writhing tests in male Swiss albino mice (weight = 20-25 g). The anti-inflammatory activity of methanolic extract of L. caspica was also evaluated by formalin-induced ear edema and xylene-induced paw edema tests. Results: The total flavonoid content of the extract was estimated as 0.0537 mg quercetin/g extract. Both first and second phases of the nociception were significantly inhibited at a dose of 120 mg/kg of methanolic extract of L. caspica. The observed anti-inflammatory effect was dose-dependent. Acetic acid-induced writhing test and hot plate test showed that the extract significantly reduced pain in all evaluated doses (15, 30, 60, and 120 mg/kg). The antinociceptive activity of the methanolic extract was significantly reduced by naloxone (4 mg/kg). Moreover, the extract significantly reduced paw edema at the dose of 120 mg/kg in all the animals. Conclusion: Methanolic extract of L. caspica exhibited central analgesic effect, as well as anti-inflammatory activity probably due to the presence of constituents like flavonoids and triterpenoids.

Progress in the physicochemical treatment of microalgae biomass for value-added product recovery

Interest in microalgae-derived products is growing, mostly due to their unique characteristics and range of industrial applications. To obtain different products, one must employ specific pretreatments that retain the properties of the biologically active compounds extracted from microalgae biomass; thus, new extraction techniques require frequent upgrades. Due to increased interest in economically viable and ecologically friendly processes, new extraction methods that can be incorporated into microalgae biorefinery systems have become the main focus of research. Therefore, this review aims to address the potential applications, future prospects, and economic scenario of the new physicochemical treatments used in the extraction of bioactive microalgae compounds.

Ultrasound-Assisted Extraction and Assessment of Biological Activity of Phycobiliprotein-Rich Aqueous Extracts from Wild Cyanobacteria (Aphanizomenon flos-aquae)

Cyanobacteria are photosynthetic microorganisms that are considered as an important source of bioactive metabolites, among which phycobiliproteins (PBPs) are a class of water-soluble macromolecules of cyanobacteria with a wide range of applications. Massive proliferation of cyanobacteria can lead to excessive surface water blooms, of which removal, as a management measure, should be prioritized. In this study, the utilization of wild cyanobacteria biomass (Aphanizomenon flos-aquae) for extraction of phycobiliproteins is reported. Extraction of phycobiliproteins by conventional methods, such as homogenization, freeze-thaw cycles, and solid-liquid extraction, were optimized prior to ultrasound-assisted extraction. Standardization of ultrasonication for different parameters, such as ultrasonication amplitude (38, 114, and 190 μm) and ultrasonication time (1, 5.5, and 10 min), was carried out using a central composite design and response surface methodology for each of the primary techniques. A substantial increase on the individual and total phycobiliprotein yields was observed after ultrasonic treatment. The highest total PBP yield (115.37 mg/g of dry weight) was observed with samples treated with a homogenizer (30 min, 30 °C, and 1 cycle) combined with ultrasound treatment (8.7 min at 179 μm). Moreover, in vitro antioxidant capacity was observed for the obtained extracts in the Folin-Ciocalteu and ABTS^* + assays. In addition, a cytotoxic effect against C6 glioma cells was observed for A. flos-aquae PBPs. Conclusively, wild cyanobacteria could be considered as an alternative feedstock for recovery of PBPs.

Recent Advances in Microalgae Peptides: Cardiovascular Health Benefits and Analysis

There is now great interest in food protein hydrolysates and food-derived peptides, because they may provide numerous health benefits. Among other foodstuffs, microalgae appear to be sustainable sources of proteins and bioactive peptides that can be exploited in foods and functional formulations. This review considers protein hydrolysates and individual peptides that may be relevant in cardiovascular disease prevention because they mimic the functions of mediators involved in pathologic processes that represent relevant risk factors for cardiovascular disease development, such as hypercholesterolemia, hypertension, diabetes, inflammation, and oxidative status. Some of these peptides are also multifunctional (i.e., they offer more than one benefit). Moreover, the most efficient techniques for protein extraction and hydrolyzation are commented on, as well as the best methodologies for high-throughput detection and quantification. Finally, current challenges and critical issues are discussed.

Anti-Inflammatory Activities of Marine Algae in Neurodegenerative Diseases

Neuroinflammation is one of the main contributors to the onset and progression of neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s diseases. Microglial and astrocyte activation is a brain defense mechanism to counteract harmful pathogens and damaged tissues, while their prolonged activation induces neuroinflammation that can trigger or exacerbate neurodegeneration. Unfortunately, to date there are no pharmacological therapies able to slow down or stop the progression of neurodegeneration. For this reason, research is turning to the identification of natural compounds with protective action against these diseases. Considering the important role of neuroinflammation in the onset and development of neurodegenerative pathologies, natural compounds with anti-inflammatory activity could be good candidates for developing effective therapeutic strategies. Marine organisms represent a huge source of natural compounds, and among them, algae are appreciated sources of important bioactive components such as antioxidants, proteins, vitamins, minerals, soluble dietary fibers, polyunsaturated fatty acids, polysaccharides, sterols, carotenoids, tocopherols, terpenes, phycobilins, phycocolloids, and phycocyanins. Recently, numerous anti-inflammatory compounds have been isolated from marine algae with potential protective efficacy against neuroinflammation. This review highlights the key inflammatory processes involved in neurodegeneration and the potential of specific compounds from marine algae to counteract neuroinflammation in the CNS.

Microalgal Derivatives as Potential Nutraceutical and Food Supplements for Human Health: A Focus on Cancer Prevention and Interception

Epidemiological studies are providing strong evidence on beneficial health effects from dietary measures, leading scientists to actively investigate which foods and which specific agents in the diet can prevent diseases. Public health officers and medical experts should collaborate toward the design of disease prevention diets for nutritional intervention. Functional foods are emerging as an instrument for dietary intervention in disease prevention. Functional food products are technologically developed ingredients with specific health benefits. Among promising sources of functional foods and chemopreventive diets of interest, microalgae are gaining worldwide attention, based on their richness in high-value products, including carotenoids, proteins, vitamins, essential amino acids, omega-rich oils and, in general, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant compounds. Beneficial effects of microalgae on human health and/or wellness could in the future be useful in preventing or delaying the onset of cancer and cardiovascular diseases. During the past decades, microalgal biomass was predominately used in the health food market, with more than 75% of the annual microalgal biomass production being employed for the manufacture of powders, tablets, capsules or pastilles. In this review, we report and discuss the present and future role of microalgae as marine sources of functional foods/beverages for human wellbeing, focusing on perspectives in chemoprevention. We dissected this topic by analyzing the different classes of microalgal compounds with health outputs (based on their potential chemoprevention activities), the biodiversity of microalgal species and how to improve their cultivation, exploring the perspective of sustainable food from the sea.

Protective efficacy of microencapsulated seaweed extracts for preventing Aeromonas infections in Oreochromis mossambicus

Sea weeds are valuable natural assets in aquaculture due to the presence of various bioactive active metabolites in them. Successful fish production and maintenance of disease free culturing systems in aquaculture with environment friendly practices is often affected by various environmental factors. Disease causing pathogens is one of the major factors. These can be controlled by the emerging technologies such as biopolymer based drug delivery systems, feed encapsulations processes and immersions of active ingredients which can possibly facilitate sustainable production by enhancing growth and immune responses in aquaculture animals. The focus of our study is on the identification of antibacterial and antioxidant compounds from two brown seaweeds, Gracilaria foliifera and Sargassum longifolium which have proven bioactive compounds. By a process of microencapsulation these bioactive compounds were encapsulated in the form of beads. Sodium caseinate and xanthan gum were mixed together to form the beads. This process helps to retain and protect the bio active ingredients from adverse reactions such as oxidation and nutritional deterioration. These microencapsulated beads were administered orally to 10 Oreochromis mossambicus the experimental fishes, with average body weight of 10-12 g and challenged against the pathogenic bacteria Aeromonas salmonicida to assess their antibacterial efficacy to control this bacterial pathogen. Microencapsulated bio active compounds were further characterized by FT-Raman, GC-MS, NMR, HPLC and SEM analysis. In this study, the effects of combined formulations of the different bioactive compounds were determined. Data obtained from the treatment of A. salmonicida infection in O. mossambicus using formulated bioactive compounds obtained from these seaweeds showed very high survival percentage in this species of fish.

Identification and characterization of multifunctional cationic peptides from traditional Japanese fermented soybean Natto extracts

In this study, we investigated the lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-neutralizing and angiogenic activities of cationic peptides derived from the traditional Japanese fermented product Natto, which is made by fermenting cooked soybeans using Bacillus subtilis. Initially, we prepared 20 fractions of Natto extracts with various isoelectric points (pI's) using ampholyte-free isoelectric focusing (autofocusing). Cationic peptides were then purified from fractions 19 and 20, whose pH values were greater than 12, using reversed-phase high-performance liquid chromatography, and were identified using matrix-assisted laser/desorption ionization-time-of-flight mass spectroscopy. Among the 13 identified cationic peptides, seven (KFNKYGR, FPFPRPPHQK, GQSSRPQDRHQK, QRFDQRSPQ, ERQFPFPRPPHQK, GEIPRPRPRPQHPE, and EQPRPIPFPRPQPR) had pI's greater than 9.5, positive net charges, and differing molecular weights. These peptides were then chemically synthesized and applied to chromogenic LPS-neutralizing assays using Limulus amebocyte lysates, and 50% effective (neutralizing) concentrations of 2.6-5.5 μM were demonstrated. In addition, tube formation assays in human umbilical vein endothelial cells revealed angiogenic activities for all but one (GEIPRPRPRPQHPE) of these seven cationic peptides, with increases in relative tube lengths of 23-31% in the presence of peptides at 10 μM. Subsequent experiments showed negligible hemolytic activity of these peptides at concentrations of up to 500 μM in mammalian red blood cells. Collectively, these data demonstrate that six cationic peptides from Natto extracts, with the exception of GEIPRPRPRPQHPE, have LPS-neutralizing and angiogenic activities but do not induce hemolysis.

Transcriptional response of cultured porcine intestinal epithelial cells to micro algae extracts in the presence and absence of enterotoxigenic Escherichia coli

Background

Micro algae's are worldwide considered as an alternative source of proteins in diets for animals and humans. Micro algae also produce an array of biological active substances with potential to induce beneficial and health promoting effects. To better understand the mode of action of micro algae's when applied as additive in diets, porcine intestinal epithelial cells (IPEC-J2), stressed by enterotoxigenic Escherichia coli (ETEC) or under non-stressed conditions, were exposed to micro algae extracts and changes in gene expression were recorded.

Methods

IPEC-J2 cells were exposed for 2 and 6 h to extracts prepared from the biomass of the microalgae Chlorella vulgaris (C), Haematococcus pluvialis (H), Spirulina platensis (S), or a mixture of Scenedesmus obliques and Chlorella sorokiniana (AM), in the absence and presence of ETEC. Gene expression in cells was measured using porcine "whole genome" microarrays.

Results

The micro algae extracts alone enhanced the expression of a set of genes coding for proteins with biological activity that are secreted from cells. These secreted proteins (hereafter denoted as effector proteins; EPs) may regulate processes like remodelling of the extracellular matrix, activation of an antiviral/bacterial response and oxygen homeostasis in the intestine and periphery. Elevated gene expression of immunostimulatory proteins CCL17, CXCL2, CXCL8 (alias IL8), IFNA, IFNL1, HMOX1, ITGB3, and THBS1 was observed in response to all four extracts in the absence or presence of ETEC. For several of these immunostimulatory proteins no elevated expression was observed when cells were exposed to ETEC alone. Furthermore, all extracts highly stimulated expression of an antisense RNA of the mitochondrial/peroxisome symporter SLC25A21 gene in ETEC-challenged cells. Inhibition of SLC25A21 translation by this antisense RNA may impose a concentration gradient of 2-oxoadipic and 2-oxoglutarate, both metabolites of fatty acid β-oxidation, between the cytoplasm and the interior of these organelles.

Conclusions

Exposure of by ETEC stressed intestinal epithelium cells to micro algae extracts affected "fatty acid β-oxidation", ATP and reactive oxygen species production and (de) hydroxylation of lysine residues in procollagen chains in these cells. Elevated gene expression of specific EPs and immunostimulatory proteins indicated that micro algae extracts, when used as feed/food additive, can steer an array of metabolic and immunological processes in the intestines of humans and monogastric animals stressed by an enteric bacterial pathogen.

Plant and Microalgae Derived Peptides Are Advantageously Employed as Bioactive Compounds in Cosmetics

Bioactive peptides (BP) are specific protein fragments that are physiologically important for most living organisms. It is proven that in humans they are involved in a wide range of therapeutic activities as antihypertensive, antioxidant, anti-tumoral, anti-proliferative, hypocholesterolemic, and anti-inflammatory. In plants, BP are involved in the defense response, as well as in the cellular signaling and the development regulation. Most of the peptides used as ingredients in health-promoting foods, dietary supplements, pharmaceutical, and cosmeceutical preparations are obtained by chemical synthesis or by partial digestion of animal proteins. This makes them not fully accepted by the consumers because of the risks associated with solvent contamination or the use of animal derived substances. On the other hand, plant and microalgae derived peptides are known to be selective, effective, safe, and well tolerated once consumed, thus they have got a great potential for use in functional foods, drugs, and cosmetic products. In fact, the interest in the plant and microalgae derived BP is rapidly increasing and in this review, we highlight and discuss the current knowledge about their studies and applications in the cosmetic field.

Effect of microalgae as iron supplements on iron-deficiency anemia in rats

Microalgae are functional iron nutritive fortifiers that can supply more intestinal nanosized iron.

Scenedesmus obliquus: Antioxidant and antiviral activity of proteins hydrolyzed by three enzymes

PURPOSE

To obtain protein hydrolysates from fresh water green algae Scenedesmus obliquus by three different enzymes and evaluate its antioxidant and antiviral activity.

METHODS

Enzymatic hydrolysates of green algae Scenedesmus obliquus protein were prepared by treatment with: 1.2% solution of pepsin, trypsin or papain. Protein was extracted from S. obliquus by three different extraction methods. Protein extracts and hydrolysates were assessed from stained gels following SDS-PAGE of samples. Antioxidant activity of protein hydrolysates was investigated.

RESULTS

S. obliquus cells and protein extracts were rich in Arg, Lys, Asp, Ala, and His. Protein hydrolyzed by papain (Sd1pa) and protein hydrolyzed by trypsin (Sd2Try) induced highest antioxidant activity based on 1,1-diphenyl-2-picryl-hydrazyl (DPPH) radical-scavenging (41.41% and 40.62%) respectively, and on 2,2'-azinobis 3-ethyl-benzothiazoline-6-sulphonate (ABTS) radical (87.03% and 45.12%) respectively, at 150 µg/ml. The inhibitory effect and mode of action of protein hydrolysates were evaluated against Coxsackie B3 virus (CVB3). Protein hydrolyzed by papain (Sd2pa) and protein hydrolyzed by pepsin (Sd1pep) at 100 µg/ml exhibited antiviral activity (66.2% and 57.6%, respectively), against (CVB3) from all protein hydrolysates.

CONCLUSION

S. obliquus protein hydrolysates have a potential as antioxidative neutraceutical ingredients and a potential therapeutic agent against CVB3.

Novel Bioactive Peptides from Meretrix meretrix Protect Caenorhabditis elegans against Free Radical-Induced Oxidative Stress through the Stress Response Factor DAF-16/FOXO

The hard clam Meretrix meretrix, which has been traditionally used as medicine and seafood, was used in this study to isolate antioxidant peptides. First, a peptide-rich extract was tested for its protective effect against paraquat-induced oxidative stress using the nematode model Caenorhabditis elegans. Then, three novel antioxidant peptides; MmP4 (LSDRLEETGGASS), MmP11 (KEGCREPETEKGHR) and MmP19 (IVTNWDDMEK), were identified and were found to increase the resistance of nematodes against paraquat. Circular dichroism spectroscopy revealed that MmP4 was predominantly in beta-sheet conformation, while MmP11 and MmP19 were primarily in random coil conformation. Using transgenic nematode models, the peptides were shown to promote nuclear translocation of the DAF-16/FOXO transcription factor, a pivotal regulator of stress response and lifespan, and induce the expression of superoxide dismutase 3 (SOD-3), an antioxidant enzyme. Analysis of DAF-16 target genes by real-time PCR reveals that sod-3 was up-regulated by MmP4, MmP11 and MmP19 while ctl-1 and ctl-2 were also up-regulated by MmP4. Further examination of daf-16 using RNA interference suggests that the peptide-increased resistance of C. elegans to oxidative stress was DAF-16 dependent. Taken together, these data demonstrate the antioxidant activity of M. meretrix peptides, which are associated with activation of the stress response factor DAF-16 and regulation of the antioxidant enzyme genes.

Characterization and Thermal Denaturation Kinetic Analysis of Recombinant l-Amino Acid Ester Hydrolase from Stenotrophomonas maltophilia

Stenotrophomonas maltophilia HS1 exhibits l-amino acid ester hydrolase (SmAEH) activity, which can synthesize dipeptides such as Ile-Trp, Val-Gly, and Trp-His from the corresponding amino acid methyl esters and amino acids. The gene encoding SmAEH was cloned and expressed in Escherichia coli and was purified and characterized. SmAEH shared 77% sequence identity with a known amino acid ester hydrolase (AEH) from Xanthomonas citri, which belongs to a class of β-lactam antibiotic acylases. The thermal stability of SmAEH was evaluated using various mathematical models to assess its industrial potential. First-order kinetics provided the best description for the inactivation of the enzyme over a temperature range of 35-50 °C. Decimal reduction time ranged from 212.76 to 3.44 min, with a z value of 8.06 °C, and the deactivation energy was 204.1 kJ mol^-1.

Trends in Microalgae Incorporation Into Innovative Food Products With Potential Health Benefits

Microalgae have demonstrated potential to meet the population's need for a more sustainable food supply, specifically with respect to protein demand. These promising protein sources present several advantages over other currently used raw materials from an environmental point of view. Additionally, one of the main characteristics of microalgae is the production of bioactive compounds with potential benefits for human health. Microalgae exploitation as a source of protein (bulk protein) and other valuable products within the food industry still presents some drawbacks, mainly because of the underdeveloped technologies and processes currently available for microalgae processing. The systematic improvement of the technology readiness level (TRL) could help change the current situation if applied to microalgae cultivation and processing. High maturity in microalgae cultivation and processing technologies also requires improvement of the economy of scale and investment of resources in new facilities and research. Antioxidative, antihypertensive, immunomodulatory, anticancerogenic, hepato-protective, and anticoagulant activities have been attributed to some microalgae-derived compounds such as peptides. Nevertheless, research on this topic is scarce and the evidence on potential health benefits is not strong. In the last years, the possibility of using microalgae-derived compounds for innovative functional food products has become of great interest, but the literature available mainly focuses more on the addition of the whole cells or some compound already available on the market. This review describes the status of utilising microalgae as an ingredient in innovative food products with potential health benefits.

Green Alga Ulva spp. Hydrolysates and Their Peptide Fractions Regulate Cytokine Production in Splenic Macrophages and Lymphocytes Involving the TLR4-NFκB/MAPK Pathways

Hydrolysates of food protein sources have immunomodulatory effects, which are of interest for use as functional foods. In this study, we have characterized the immune regulatory effect on rat splenocytes, macrophages and T lymphocytes of Ulva spp. hydrolysates and their peptide fractions with or without in vitro gastrointestinal digestion and/or ultrafiltration. IL-10 was induced in almost all conditions and cell types obtained from wild type animals. The induction was in general increased by ultrafiltration and in vitro gastrointestinal digestion. TNF was also induced in basal conditions. In turn, TNF and IFN-γ production was attenuated by the hydrolysate products in lipopolysaccharide or concanavalin A immune stimulated cells. Inhibitors for the activation of NFκB, MAPK p38 and JNK inhibited IL-10 induction in rat splenocytes. The response was dramatically attenuated in TLR4-/- cells, and only modestly in TLR2-/- cells. Food peptides from Ulva spp. genus exert anti-inflammatory effects in immune cells mediated by TLR4 and NFκB. Similarity with the immunomodulatory profile of protein hydrolysates from other sources suggests a common mechanism.