Marine bioactives as functional food ingredients: potential to reduce the incidence of chronic diseases

Oxidative stress and growth performance are modulated by polyunsaturated fatty acids in Arctic charr, brook charr and their reciprocal hybrids

In fish, polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) are essential structural elements in cellular membranes, participate in pathway regulation and act as important energy storage sources for optimum growth performance. However, they are also highly susceptible to peroxidation and thus potential oxidative damage. Omega-3 fatty acid content can vary among individuals and populations of fish and can therefore modulate their health status or resistance to oxidative stress. Our objective was to modulate [Formula: see text] omega-3 content in fish through different diets and estimate its impact on growth performance, overall fatty acid composition, oxidative stress parameters and antioxidant activity. We conducted experiments on juveniles (1+) of four salmonid groups: Arctic charr (Salvelinus alpinus), brook charr (Salvelinus fontinalis) and their reciprocal hybrids. We found that growth performance in the four groups was negatively affected by high dietary fatty acid content. The content of thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS, a marker of lipids peroxidation) significantly rose in Arctic charr when fed the omega-3-rich diet. It was also observed that individuals with high docosahexaenoic acid and low [Formula: see text] omega-6 content had lower TBARS content. Consequently, high omega-3/omega-6 ratios were accompanied by lower oxidative stress levels. This supports the utilization of omega-3/omega-6 ratios as a marker of the ability of fish to modulate oxidative stress both in the wild and in an aquaculture context. This will further help to predict responses to environmental or nutritional modifications.

Seaweed-Derived Bioactive Compounds: Potent Modulators in Breast Cancer Therapy

Cancer remains a major global health concern, with breast cancer being particularly challenging. To address this, new therapeutic strategies are being explored, including natural alternatives. Seaweeds, rich in bioactive compounds, have gained attention for their therapeutic potential. Traditionally valued for their nutritional content, seaweed-derived compounds such as polysaccharides, polyphenols, sterols, vitamins, minerals, and carotenoids have shown anticancer properties. These compounds can modulate key cellular processes like apoptosis, angiogenesis, and inflammation-crucial in cancer progression. Their antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and immunomodulatory effects make them promising candidates for complementary cancer therapies. Key bioactive components like fucoidans, laminarins, phlorotannins, and carotenoids exhibit antiproliferative, proapoptotic, antiangiogenic, and antimetastatic properties. Recent studies focus on the ability of these compounds to induce apoptosis in cancer cells. This review highlights the chemical constituents of various seaweed species with antitumor activity, their mechanisms of action, and the potential for integration into cancer treatments. It also addresses challenges in clinical applications and outlines future research directions for leveraging these marine resources in breast cancer therapy.

Delivery of Ulva rigida extract by bicontinuous cubic lipid nanoplatforms for potential photodynamic therapy against pancreatic cancer

Ulva rigida is a widely available marine algae representing a valuable biomass from which natural photosensitizers (chlorophylls) can be obtained in an environmentally friendly manner using a green microwave-assisted extraction technique. If properly loaded in biocompatible nanoformulations, such highly hydrophobic chlorophylls with photosensitizing activity may constitute effective drugs useful in photodynamic therapy (PDT) against extremely resistant pancreatic cancer cells. To permit adequate solubilization in water, prevent immune system activation, and improve pharmacokinetic properties, an extract from Ulva rigida biomass was encapsulated in two monoolein-based cubosome formulations differing for the dispersants used for their stabilization in water: Pluronic F108 (CUB) or a mixture of sorbitan monooleate and sodium taurocholate (TS-CUB). In both cases, high encapsulation efficiency was achieved. The formulations were investigated from a physicochemical point of view (SAXS, cryo-TEM, DLS, ELS), and the production of reactive oxygen species was evaluated. In addition, an extensive evaluation of biocompatibility and bioactivity was conducted on the human pancreatic cancer cell line BxPC-3. This assessment included an MTT cytotoxicity assay, cellular uptake analysis via flow cytometry, and cytoskeleton imaging both under dark conditions and post-irradiation to evaluate the effects of PDT. Unloaded nanoparticles were characterized by an inner bicontinuous cubic phase (Pn3m). However, after encapsulation of the Ulva rigida extract the presence of a sponge phase (L3) in the TS-CUB formulation was observed. Compared with CUB, TS-CUB loaded with the extract demonstrated enhanced photoactivity, superior biocompatibility, and more potent in vitro anticancer activity against pancreatic cancer through photodynamic therapy (PDT).

Bioactive Compounds in Seafood: Implications for Health and Nutrition

The significance of Seafood as a reservoir of bioactive substances is increasing. With sea creatures making up approximately half of all living organisms on the planet, seas, and oceans present many innovative materials and are believed to hold the most substantial remaining reserve of beneficial natural compounds. Seafood provides a plentiful supply of essential nutrients, including high-quality protein, various fatty acids (such as omega-3s), and bioactive compounds like taurine, carotenoids, and phytosterols, all contributing to its numerous health advantages. Furthermore, seafood contains bio-lipopeptides, polysaccharides, and phenolic compounds, and it promotes health through its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. Enzymes, vitamins, and minerals further enrich its nutritional profile, supporting various metabolic processes and overall well-being. This review emphasizes the health benefits of seafood consumption, encompassing its cardio-protective effects that bolster heart health, its antidiabetic properties that aid in regulating blood sugar levels and its anti-cancer effects that may lower the risk of specific cancers. Additionally, seafood contributes to anti-obesity effects, enhances brain health, delivers antioxidative activity to combat oxidative stress, and supports maternal care during pregnancy and lactation.

Recent developments, challenges, and prospects of dietary omega-3 PUFA-fortified foods: Focusing on their effects on cardiovascular diseases

Dietary omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (Dω-3 PUFAs) have been extensively studied and have been proven to offer notable benefits for heart health. Scientific meta-analysis strongly endorses them as potent bioactive agents capable of preventing and managing cardiovascular diseases (CVDs). Fortification of foods with Dω-3 PUFAs is a potential strategy for enhancing Dω-3 PUFA intake in an effort to continue strengthening public health outcomes. This review analyzed recent trends in the fortification of foods with Dω-3 PUFAs in relation to technological developments, challenges linked to the method, and future scope. Additionally, recent clinical trials and research on the effect of Dω-3 PUFA-fortified food consumption on cardiovascular health are reviewed. Technological trends in fortification methods, namely microencapsulation- and nanoencapsulation, have made considerable progress to date, along with excellent stability in both processing and storage conditions and favorable bioaccessibility and sensory attributes of fortified foods. There is a tremendous deal of promise for cardiovascular health based on recent clinical trial findings that fortifying food with Dω-3 PUFAs decreased the incidence of heart disease, blood pressure, and lipid profiles. In summary, substantial progress has been made in addressing the challenges of Dω-3 PUFA fortification. However, further multidisciplinary research is needed to inculcate effectiveness toward achieving the maximum possible Dω-3 PUFAs to protect against the harmful effects of CVDs and continue global health progress.

Eco-Friendly Extraction and Formulation of Black Sea Shark Liver Oil-Based Emulgel for Anti-Inflammatory and Healing Dermatocosmetic Applications

This study explores the eco-friendly extraction and formulation of emulgels based on Black Sea shark liver oil for their potential anti-inflammatory and wound healing dermatocosmetic applications. Two emulgel formulations were prepared: Gel 1, containing shark liver oil, and Gel 2, combining shark liver oil with borage oil. The eco-friendly extraction of shark liver oil was performed, yielding a high content of polyunsaturated omega-3 fatty acids, primarily eicosapentaenoic acid (16.68 ± 0.28 mg/g %) and docosahexaenoic acid (18.14 ± 0.31 mg/g %). Physicochemical evaluations of the emulgels revealed excellent stability over time, with small variations in pH, viscosity, and spreadability, confirming their robustness. Rheological analysis demonstrated pseudoplastic behavior for both formulations, with Gel 2 exhibiting a more favorable flow and consistency index (K = 34.11, n = 0.28) compared to Gel 1 (K = 32.73, n = 0.29). The anti-inflammatory effect was evaluated using two experimental edema models: 10% kaolin suspension and 6% dextran solution. Both emulgels demonstrated significant edema reduction, with Gel 2 showing a more potent anti-inflammatory effect. The wound healing effect was assessed in vivo, revealing that Gel 2 accelerated wound closure and hair restoration, outperforming Gel 1 and the reference diclofenac gel. These results suggest that Black Sea shark liver oil-based emulgels, especially borage oil formulation, offer promising eco-friendly alternatives for dermatocosmetic applications, with enhanced anti-inflammatory and wound healing properties.

Revolutionizing Diabetes Care: The Role of Marine Bioactive Compounds and Microorganisms

Diabetes is a metabolic condition characterized by high blood glucose levels. Aquatic products like microalgae, bacteria, seagrasses, macroalgae, corals, and sponges have been investigated for potential anti-diabetic properties. We looked at polyphenols, peptides, pigments, and sterols, as well as other bioactive substances found in marine resources, to see if they could help treat or manage diabetes, in addition to describing the several treatment strategies that alter diabetes and its implications, such as inhibition of protein tyrosine phosphatases 1B (PTP1B), α-glucosidase, α-amylase, dipeptidyl peptidase IV (DPP-IV), aldose reductase, lipase, glycogen synthase kinase 3β (GSK-3β), and insulin resistance prevention, promotion of liver antioxidant capacity, natural killer cell stimulant, anti-inflammatory actions, increased AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) phosphorylation and sugar and metabolism of the lipid, reducing oxidative stress, and β-pancreatic cell prevention. This study highlights the revolutionary potential of marine bioactive compounds and microorganisms in transforming diabetes care. We believe in a future in which innovative, sustainable, and efficient therapeutic approaches will result in improved quality of life and better outcomes for people with diabetes mellitus by forging a new path for treatment, utilizing the power of the world's oceans, and capitalizing on the symbiotic relationship between humans and the marine ecosystem. This study area offers optimism and promising opportunities for transforming diabetes care.

Seaweeds-derived proteins and peptides: preparation, virtual screening, health-promoting effects, and industry applications

Seaweed, a promising source of nutritional proteins, including protein hydrolysates, bioactive peptides, phycobiliproteins, and lectins with multi-biological activities. Seaweeds-derived proteins and peptides have attracted increasing interest for their potential applications in dietary supplements, functional foods, and pharmaceuticals industries. This work aims to comprehensively review the preparation methods and virtual screening strategies for seaweed-derived functional peptides. Additionally, it elucidates their diverse biological activities, mechanisms of action, and industrial applications. Enzymatic hydrolysis appears as the most effective method for preparing functional peptides from seaweeds. Computational virtual screening has also proven to be a valuable strategy for assessing the nature of the peptides. Seaweeds-derived proteins and peptides offer numerous health benefits, including alleviation of oxidative stress, anti-diabetic, anti-hypertensive, anti-inflammatory, anti-obesity, anti-cancer, and anti-microbial activities. Studies indicate that proteins hydrolysates and peptides derived from seaweeds with low molecular weight and aromatic and/or hydrophobic amino acids are particularly significant in contributing to these diverse bio-activities. Furthermore, seaweeds-derived proteins and peptides hold great promise for industrial applications owing to the broad spectrum of bio-functional effects. They can be used as active ingredients in food products or pharmaceuticals for disease prevention and treatment, and as food preservatives, potentially with fewer side effects.

Nutritional Health Connection of Algae and its Pharmaceutical Value as Anticancer and Antioxidant Constituents of Drugs

The marine environment is one of the major biomass producers of algae and seaweed; it is rich in functional ingredients or active metabolites with valuable nutritional health effects. Algal metabolites derived from the cultivation of both microalgae and macroalgae may positively impact human health, offering physiological, pharmaceutical and nutritional benefits. Microalgae have been widely used as novel sources of bioactive substances. Bioactive polymers extracted from algae, such as algal fucans, Galatians, alginates phenolics, carotenoids, vitamin B12, and peptides possess antioxidant, anticoagulant, antimicrobial, antiviral, anti-inflammatory, anti-allergy, anticancer, and hypocholesterolemic properties. It emphasizes that using marine-derived compounds with bioactive properties as functional food ingredients may help promote human health and prevent chronic diseases. Utilizing bioactive compounds has demonstrated notable advantages in terms of effectiveness more than conventional treatments and therapies currently in use which is also proven from different patents about algal applications in different fields. Despite the availability of numerous microalgae-derived products catering to human health and nutrition in the market, there remains a lack of social acceptance and awareness regarding the health benefits of microalgae. Hence, this review aims to offer a comprehensive account of the current knowledge on anticancers, antioxidants, commercially available edible algal products and therapeutics isolated from algae.

Dietary seaweed extract mitigates oxidative stress in Nile tilapia by modulating inflammatory response and gut microbiota

Introduction

Extreme water temperature affects the well-being of all aquatic animals, including fish. Higher temperatures can lead to the generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS), which can induce oxidative stress and negatively impact fish health and well-being. This study investigated the protective effects of seaweed extract on growth, antioxidant status, inflammatory responses, and gut microbiota to gain a better understanding of the acclimatization ability of Nile tilapia, Oreochromis niloticus in response to oxidative stress caused by high water temperatures.

Methods

Red-seaweed, Gracilaria tenuistipitata rich in polyphenols (i.e., total phenolics and flavonoids content) was considered for the preparation of the Gracilaria extract (GE) for the study. Nile tilapia were fed the GE supplemented diet along with a control diet for 42 days, followed by 14 days of temperature ramping at a rate of 1°C every two days to the desired target (35°C) and 14 days of holding at 32°C for acclimatation.

Results

Nile tilapia fed the GE had a significantly higher growth performance attributed to increased muscle fiber size compared to control (p < 0.05) after the 70 days of feeding trial. Fish fed the GE diet also showed a significantly lower lipid peroxidation by decreased malondialdehyde level when compared to control (p < 0.05). Furthermore, GE diet exhibited increased red blood cell counts with the decreased number of cellular and nuclear abnormalities. The gene expression of tight junction (i.e., occludin, claudin1, ZO-1) and nrf2 (antioxidant biomarker) were upregulated, while hsp70 (related to stress response) was downregulated in fish fed the GE diet. Additionally, GE supplementation led to an increase in bacterial diversity and the abundance of phylum Firmicutes, order Lactobacillales, and genera Sphingobacterium and Prevotella in the distal gut of Nile tilapia, which are mostly considered as beneficial for fish.

Conclusion

The findings suggest that GE has the potential to be used as a dietary supplement to improve health, particularly as a stress-resistant supplement in the diet for Nile tilapia. This study may help make more informed decisions for tailoring the nutrient requirements of fish in the face of climate warming.

Comprehensive Phytochemical Profiling of Ulva lactuca from the Adriatic Sea

The potential of the green macroalga Ulva lactuca is increasingly recognized, not only for its environmental benefits, but also for its applications in various industries, including food, pharmaceuticals, and cosmetics. Given this insight, a comprehensive analysis of the chemical profile of U. lactuca from the Adriatic Sea was carried out. The hydrodistillate, rich in (Z,Z,Z)-hexadeca-7,10,13-trienal and hexadecanoic acid, underlines its importance for health-related uses, particularly in lipid metabolism and cellular integrity. Fatty acid analysis showed a predominance of palmitic acid and a favorable n-6/n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid ratio, suggesting that U. lactuca can make a valuable contribution to a balanced diet. In addition, essential amino acids, including leucine, valine, and isoleucine, support its use as a functional ingredient for muscle repair and metabolic health. The ethanol extract contained 56 compounds, including derivatives of fatty acids, phenolic acids, pigments, flavonoids, and steroids. Many of them, such as hexadecasphinganine, azelaic acid, 5-sulfosalicylic acid, and pheophytin a, have proven roles or potentials in promoting human health. These results confirm that U. lactuca is a rich source of bioactive compounds, emphasizing its potential in scientific research and its expanding industrial applications in health, nutrition, and cosmetics.

Valorization of Baltic Sea farmed blue mussels: Chemical profiling and prebiotic potential for nutraceutical and functional food development

The severe eutrophication of the Baltic Sea requires mussel (Mytilus spp.) farming to remove nutrients, but farming in a low salinity environment results in smaller mussels that require value enhancement to be economically viable. This study evaluates the biomass valorisation of smaller Baltic mussels, focusing on the extraction of oil, protein and glycogen. It analyses the amino acid profiles, oil and fatty acid contents and glycogen levels of the mussels, as well as their prebiotic properties on beneficial gut bacteria. In addition, the study improves the extraction of bioactive compounds through enzymatic hydrolysis. Results indicate significant seasonal differences, with summer mussels having higher meat and lower ash content, and a rich content of essential fatty acids, particularly omega-3, and amino acids, underscoring the mussels' sustainability as a food source. The enzymatically treated biomass exhibited notable prebiotic activity, proposing health-promoting benefits. The study underscores the valorization of Baltic mussel biomass, highlighting its role in health, nutrition, and environmental sustainability.

Multifunctional applications of seaweed extract-infused hydroxyethyl cellulose-polyvinylpyrrolidone aerogels: Antibacterial, and antibiofilm proficiency for water decontamination

Establishing a reliable and secure water supply is still a significant challenge in many areas that need more infrastructure. Eliminating harmful bacteria from water systems is a critical obstacle to managing the spread of waterborne illnesses and protecting public health. Thus, this work focuses on enhancing the efficiency of using marine waste extract, namely seaweed, by its integrating its extract into aerogels based on Hydroxyethyl cellulose (HEC) and polyvinylpolypyrrolidone (PVP). Four formulations were created with increasing concentrations of Padina extract (PE): PE-0, PE-1, PE-2, and PE-3 loaded HEC-PVP aerogels. PE-3 loaded HEC-PVP aerogel showed remarkable efficacy in completely deactivating several types of bacteria, including Escherichia coli, Salmonella enterica, Enterococcus faecalis, and Bacillus subtilis. This antibacterial impact was seen within a short time frame of 75 min after treatment, making it the most significant outcome. Significantly, it had the greatest level of inhibition against E. coli (IZD: 24 mm) and showed potent inhibitory effects against S. enterica, E. faecalis, and B. subtilis, with IZD values of 18, 15, and 14 mm, respectively. These results indicate that the aerogel's ability to prohibite the harmfull microorganisms may be due to its surface qualities, which help release antimicrobial substances from the PE contained in the aerogel.

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.

Extraction, Characterisation and Evaluation of Antioxidant and Probiotic Growth Potential of Water-Soluble Polysaccharides from Ulva rigida Macroalgae

Ulva rigida green macroalgae contain a variety of polysaccharides. A recent study investigated the optimum concentration and yield of polysaccharide extraction from oven-dried U. rigida biomass using a water-soluble polysaccharide extraction method that adhered to safety standards. This study utilised complete factorial experiments to examine the effects of varying factors on polysaccharide extraction. Results showed a positive correlation between increased levels of all factors and higher polysaccharide extraction yield. This study also found that the main factors and their interaction had a significant impact on the extracted polysaccharides from U. rigida. The highest polysaccharide content and yield were 9.5 mg/mL and 189 mg/g, respectively. Water-soluble polysaccharides demonstrated the presence of reducing sugar (8 mg/g), phenolics (0.69 mg/g) and flavonoids (1.42 mg/g) and exhibited antioxidant properties. Results revealed that freeze-dried polysaccharide powders were primarily composed of the monosaccharide rhamnose. Preliminary results on the effect of these powders on probiotics demonstrated that supplementation of polysaccharides from U. rigida promoted viable Lactobacillus rhamnosus ATCC 53103 growth during cultivation. This discovery has the potential to revolutionise the human food industry and promote the development of functional ingredients for novel and future food products, with numerous applications in the nutraceutical and pharmaceutical industries.

Exploring the therapeutic potential of functional foods for diabetes: A bibliometric analysis and scientific mapping

The incidence of diabetes is increasingly becoming a global health burden. Meanwhile, in recent years, functional foods have been intensively investigated for diabetes management. These foods provide health benefits due to their bioactive compounds that enhance the metabolism and lower the risk of chronic diseases, such as diabetes. The aim of this study was to explore the keywords, countries/territories, publication numbers, institutions, authors, and journals associated with functional foods for the management of diabetes using a comprehensive bibliometric analysis method. Scopus database was used to compile the information, followed by VOSviewer for comprehensive bibliometric data analysis. A total of 1,226 Scopus articles that met the inclusion criteria were analyzed. The results showed that the greatest expansion in research occurred in 2012, and China was identified as the most productive nation in this field. In addition, Food and Function was found as the most recognized journal in this area, and Singh, R.B. as well as Zengin, G. made the greatest contribution. The bibliometric data also illustrated several mechanisms of functional foods for diabetes management, including antioxidant activity, effect on the gastrointestinal microbiomes, and inhibitor α-amylase. These results underscore the immense potential of functional foods in the diabetes management and provide guidance for future research on this subject.

Maximizing crustaceans (shrimp, crab, and lobster) by-products value for optimum valorization practices: A comparative review of their active ingredients, extraction, bioprocesses and applications

BACKGROUND

The processing of the three major crustaceans (shrimp, lobster, and crab) is associated with inevitable by-products, high waste disposal costs, environmental and human health issues, loss of multiple biomaterials (chitin, protein hydrolysates, lipids, astaxanthin and minerals). Nowadays, these bioresources are underutilized owing to the lack of effective and standardized technologies to convert these materials into valued industrial forms.

AIM OF REVIEW

This review aims to provide a holistic overview of the various bioactive ingredients and applications within major crustaceans by-products. This review aims to compare various extraction methods in crustaceans by-products, which will aid identify a more workable platform to minimize waste disposal and maximize its value for best valorization practices.

KEY SCIENTIFIC CONCEPTS OF REVIEW

The fully integrated applications (agriculture, food, cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, paper industries, etc.) of multiple biomaterials from crustaceans by-products are presented. The pros and cons of the various extraction methods, including chemical (acid and alkali), bioprocesses (enzymatic or fermentation), physical (microwave, ultrasound, hot water and carbonic acid process), solvent (ionic liquids, deep eutectic solvents, EDTA) and electrochemistry are detailed. The rapid development of corresponding biotechnological attempts present a simple, fast, effective, clean, and controllable bioprocess for the comprehensive utilization of crustacean waste that has yet to be applied at an industrial level. One feasible way for best valorization practices is to combine innovative extraction techniques with industrially applicable technologies to efficiently recover these valuable components.

The influence of Spirulina extract on pathogenicity, immune response, and vaccine efficacy against H9N2 avian influenza virus in specific pathogen free chickens

Avian influenza (AI) viruses pose a risk to the worldwide poultry industry. Ultimately, improving the efficiency of the H9N2 vaccine is necessary to better control low-pathogenic avian influenza-H9N2 by using natural immunostimulant. Therefore, the goal of the present study was to examine varying doses of the cyanobacterium Spirulina extract on the effectiveness of H9N2 vaccine. Thus, a total of 150 specific pathogen-free (SPF) chickens were allocated into 6 groups, 25 birds each, as follow: G1, G2, and G6 were supplemented with 200, 400, and 400 mg Spirulina extract/kg feed, respectively, whilst the feed in G3, G4, and G5 were not supplemented with Spirulina extract. At 21-days-old, only the chickens in G1, G2, and G3 were vaccinated with the H9N2 AI vaccine. After 4 wk postvaccination, the chickens in G1, G2, G3, G4, and G6 were challenged with H9N2 AI Egyptian strain. The challenged virus was selected from a recent circulating Egyptian strain during 2022, and it was related to A/quail/Hong Kong/G1/97-like virus lineage and clustered with G1-B sub-lineage EGY-2 group. It had a high amino acids identity percentage of 92.6% with the A/chicken/Iran/av1221/1998 (Boehringer Ingelheim) vaccine. The results of real-time reverse-transcriptase polymerase-chain-reaction (rRT-PCR) revealed that no shedding of the virus was reported in G1, G2, G3, and G5. The supplementation of Spirulina extract in low (200 mg/kg of feed) and high (400 mg/kg of feed) concentration with the birds vaccinated with H9N2 AI vaccine (G1 and G2) induced prominent immuno-stimulatory effect in a dose dependent manner where it strongly enhanced the phagocytic activities of broilers' peripheral blood monocytes, and lysozyme at all days postvaccination (dpv) and days postchallenge (dpc) compared to other groups with significant differences at all day of experiment and 21st dpv, 28th dpv, 7th dpc, and 14th dpc, respectively. The supplementation with Spirulina extract in G1 and G2 induced the highest hemagglutination inhibition antibody titer in a dose-dependent manner at all-time intervals. The antibody titer postvaccination was significantly increased in G1 and G2 at 14th, and 21st dpv, in comparison with G3. Furthermore, G1 and G2 showed higher significant antibody titers at 7th and 14th dpc, compared to other groups. Furthermore, Spirulina extract (200 and 400 mg/kg feed) in G1 and G2 showed anti-inflammatory effect in a dose dependant manner by downregulating nitric oxide levels at all times postchallenge with a significant difference at 3 to 7 dpc compared to G3, G4, and G6, with improved histopathological alterations in the trachea, lung, kidney, spleen, and bursa of Fabricius.  G6 supplied with 400 mg/kg Spirulina extract feed only without vaccination had a similar effect as vaccinated groups on innate immunity. However, it delayed the production of antibodies and did not prevent viral shedding as in vaccinated groups. In conclusion, vaccination in conjunction with either dose of Spirulina extract (G1, and G2) prevents viral shedding, increases the immune response, and reduces inflammation and histopathological change caused by H9N2 AI infection in a dose dependent manner. We recommend the use of 400 mg Spirulina extract/kg feed as a natural immunostimulant in conjunction with the H9N2 vaccine to achieve the highest possible level of protection against H9N2 AI infection.

Untargeted metabolomics to expand the chemical space of the marine diatom Skeletonema marinoi

Diatoms (Bacillariophyceae) are aquatic photosynthetic microalgae with an ecological role as primary producers in the aquatic food web. They account substantially for global carbon, nitrogen, and silicon cycling. Elucidating the chemical space of diatoms is crucial to understanding their physiology and ecology. To expand the known chemical space of a cosmopolitan marine diatom, Skeletonema marinoi, we performed High-Resolution Liquid Chromatography-Tandem Mass Spectrometry (LC-MS2) for untargeted metabolomics data acquisition. The spectral data from LC-MS2 was used as input for the Metabolome Annotation Workflow (MAW) to obtain putative annotations for all measured features. A suspect list of metabolites previously identified in the Skeletonema spp. was generated to verify the results. These known metabolites were then added to the putative candidate list from LC-MS2 data to represent an expanded catalog of 1970 metabolites estimated to be produced by S. marinoi. The most prevalent chemical superclasses, based on the ChemONT ontology in this expanded dataset, were organic acids and derivatives, organoheterocyclic compounds, lipids and lipid-like molecules, and organic oxygen compounds. The metabolic profile from this study can aid the bioprospecting of marine microalgae for medicine, biofuel production, agriculture, and environmental conservation. The proposed analysis can be applicable for assessing the chemical space of other microalgae, which can also provide molecular insights into the interaction between marine organisms and their role in the functioning of ecosystems.

Seaweed and Seaweed-Based Functional Metabolites as Potential Modulators of Growth, Immune and Antioxidant Responses, and Gut Microbiota in Fish

Seaweed, also known as macroalgae, represents a vast resource that can be categorized into three taxonomic groups: Rhodophyta (red), Chlorophyta (green), and Phaeophyceae (brown). They are a good source of essential nutrients such as proteins, minerals, vitamins, and omega-3 fatty acids. Seaweed also contains a wide range of functional metabolites, including polyphenols, polysaccharides, and pigments. This study comprehensively discusses seaweed and seaweed-derived metabolites and their potential as a functional feed ingredient in aquafeed for aquaculture production. Past research has discussed the nutritional role of seaweed in promoting the growth performance of fish, but their effects on immune response and gut health in fish have received considerably less attention in the published literature. Existing research, however, has demonstrated that dietary seaweed and seaweed-based metabolite supplementation positively impact the antioxidant status, disease resistance, and stress response in fish. Additionally, seaweed supplementation can promote the growth of beneficial bacteria and inhibit the proliferation of harmful bacteria, thereby improving gut health and nutrient absorption in fish. Nevertheless, an important balance remains between dietary seaweed inclusion level and the resultant metabolic alteration in fish. This review highlights the current state of knowledge and the associated importance of continued research endeavors regarding seaweed and seaweed-based functional metabolites as potential modulators of growth, immune and antioxidant response, and gut microbiota composition in fish.

Novel marine metalloprotease-new approaches for inhibition of biofilm formation of Stenotrophomonas maltophilia

Many marine organisms produce bioactive molecules with unique characteristics to survive in their ecological niches. These enzymes can be applied in biotechnological processes and in the medical sector to replace aggressive chemicals that are harmful to the environment. Especially in the human health sector, there is a need for new approaches to fight against pathogens like Stenotrophomonas maltophilia which forms thick biofilms on artificial joints or catheters and causes serious diseases. Our approach was to use enrichment cultures of five marine resources that underwent sequence-based screenings in combination with deep omics analyses in order to identify enzymes with antibiofilm characteristics. Especially the supernatant of the enrichment culture of a stony coral caused a 40% reduction of S. maltophilia biofilm formation. In the presence of the supernatant, our transcriptome dataset showed a clear stress response (upregulation of transcripts for metal resistance, antitoxins, transporter, and iron acquisition) to the treatment. Further investigation of the enrichment culture metagenome and proteome indicated a series of potential antimicrobial enzymes. We found an impressive group of metalloproteases in the proteome of the supernatant that is responsible for the detected anti-biofilm effect against S. maltophilia. KEY POINTS: • Omics-based discovery of novel marine-derived antimicrobials for human health management by inhibition of S. maltophilia • Up to 40% reduction of S. maltophilia biofilm formation by the use of marine-derived samples • Metalloprotease candidates prevent biofilm formation of S. maltophilia K279a by up to 20.

Cardiovascular Diseases and Marine Oils: A Focus on Omega-3 Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids and Polar Lipids

Cardiovascular diseases (CVD) remain the leading cause of death across the globe, hence, establishing strategies to counteract CVD are imperative to reduce mortality and the burden on health systems. Dietary modification is an effective primary prevention strategy against CVD. Research regarding dietary supplementation has become increasingly popular. This review focuses on the current in vivo, in vitro, and epidemiological studies associated with that of omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (n-3 PUFAs) and polar lipids (PLs) and how they play a role against CVD. Furthermore, this review focuses on the results of several major clinical trials examining n-3 PUFAs regarding both primary and secondary prevention of CVD. Notably, we place a lens on the REDUCE-IT and STRENGTH trials. Finally, supplementation of PLs has recently been suggested as a potential alternative avenue for the reduction of CVD incidence versus neutral forms of n-3 PUFAs. However, the clinical evidence for this argument is currently rather limited. Therefore, we draw on the current literature to suggest future clinical trials for PL supplementation. We conclude that despite conflicting evidence, future human trials must be completed to confirm whether PL supplementation may be more effective than n-3 PUFA supplementation to reduce cardiovascular risk.

Extraction and comparative study of seasonal antioxidant activity using Nostoc species isolated from Gali Ali Bag, Erbil

Seasonal variation of water, antioxidant activities as algal pigments, total antioxidant activities, DPPH, total phenolic compound using three solvents, methanol, acetone, and diethyl ether, of two algal species, N. commune and N. muscarum, were assessed. They also determined the physio-chemical and bacteriological water characteristics at the Gali Ali Bag. A significant variation were observed with an obvious correlation in water quality parameters in different seasons, generally raised in summer and reduced in winter. The two algal species show a higher accumulation of photosynthetic and accessory pigments in spring and summer and a significant decrease in winter. Antioxidant capacity in both algal species was analyzed by a three-way ANOVA and Kruskal-Wallis test. However, the contents were significant for all solvents. Moreover, N. muscarum shows the highest capacity in winter and reduced in summer for DPPH; however, the opposite pattern shows by N. commune. Although the total phenolic content of N. commune recorded a significant relation, N. muscarum was non-significant. The Cyanophyta algae show prominent growth responses and antioxidant activities and are better adapted to changing climatic conditions. Due to their prompt responses, even to minor changes in the aquatic environment, they can be used as ecological indicators in freshwater ecosystems.

Seaweed polysaccharide nanocomposite films: A review

A million tonnes of plastic produced each year are disposed of after single use. Biodegradable polymers have become a promising material as an alternative to petroleum-based polymers. Utilising biodegradable polymers will promote environmental sustainability which has emerged with potential features and performances for various applications in different sectors. Seaweed-derived polysaccharides-based composites have been the focus of numerous studies due to the composites' renewability and sustainability for industries (food packaging and medical fields like tissue engineering and drug delivery). Due to their biocompatibility, abundance, and gelling ability, seaweed derivatives such as alginate, carrageenan, and agar are commonly used for this purpose. Seaweed has distinct film-forming characteristics, but its mechanical and water vapour barrier qualities are weak. Thus, modifications are necessary to enhance the seaweed properties. This review article summarises and discusses the effect of incorporating seaweed films with different types of nanoparticles on their mechanical, thermal, and water barrier properties.

Study of the Phytochemical Composition, Antioxidant Properties, and In Vitro Anti-Diabetic Efficacy of Gracilaria bursa-pastoris Extracts

In this study, a comparison was made of the chemical makeup of different extracts obtained from Gracilaria bursa-pastoris, a type of red seaweed that was gathered from the Nador lagoon situated in the northern part of Morocco. Additionally, their anti-diabetic and antioxidant properties were investigated. The application of GC-MS technology to analyze the fatty acid content of the samples revealed that linoleic acid and eicosenoic acid were the most abundant unsaturated fatty acids across all samples, with palmitic acid and oleic acid following in frequency. The HPLC analysis indicated that ascorbic and kojic acids were the most prevalent phenolic compounds, while apigenin was the most common flavonoid molecule. The aqueous extract exhibited significant levels of polyphenols and flavonoids, registering values of 381.31 ± 0.33 mg GAE/g and 201.80 ± 0.21 mg QE/g, respectively. Furthermore, this particular extract demonstrated a remarkable ability to scavenge DPPH radicals, as evidenced by its IC₅₀ value of 0.17 ± 0.67 mg/mL. In addition, the methanolic extract was found to possess antioxidant properties, as evidenced by its ability to prevent β-carotene discoloration, with an IC₅₀ ranging from 0.062 ± 0.02 mg/mL to 0.070 ± 0.06 mg/mL. In vitro study showed that all extracts significantly inhibited the enzymatic activity of α-amylase and α-glucosidase. Finally, molecular docking models were applied to assess the interaction between the primary phytochemicals identified in G. bursa-pastoris extracts and the human pancreatic α-amylase and α-glucosidase enzymes. The findings suggest that these extracts contain bioactive substances capable of reducing enzyme activity more effectively than the commercially available drug acarbose.

Miyeokgui (Undaria pinnatifida Sporophyll) Characteristic under Different Relative Humidity: Microbial Safety, Antioxidant Activity, Ascorbic Acid, Fucoxanthin, α-/β-/γ-Tocopherol Contents

This study aimed to investigate the effects of different relative humidities (%) on the microbial safety, antioxidant activity, ascorbic acid, fucoxanthin, and tocopherol contents of Undaria pinnatifida sporophyll powder (UPSP) stored for 4 weeks. The caking phenomenon did not occur in the 11-53% relative humidity conditions, but it did in the 69%, 81%, and 93% relative humidity conditions with caking index values of 88.30%, 99.75%, and 99.98%, respectively. The aerobic bacterial contents increased drastically in samples stored at 69-93% relative humidity. Ascorbic acid was unstable at high relative humidity, but fucoxanthin and tocopherol were more unstable at low relative humidity. Therefore, it was most stable at intermediate relative humidity. The 69% relative humidity sample had higher DPPH (12.57 g BHAE/kg), ABTS (4.87 g AAE/kg), and FRAP (4.60 g Fe (II)/kg) than the other samples. This study could be helpful for the storage and transport of UPSP under optimum relative humidity conditions, which can significantly prevent quality losses.

Sustainable production and pharmaceutical applications of β-glucan from microbial sources

β-glucans are a large class of complex polysaccharides found in abundant sources. Our dietary sources of β-glucans are cereals that include oats and barley, and non-cereal sources can consist of mushrooms, microalgae, bacteria, and seaweeds. There is substantial clinical interest in β-glucans; as they can be used for a variety of diseases including cancer and cardiovascular conditions. Suitable sources of β-glucans for biopharmaceutical applications include bacteria, microalgae, mycelium, and yeast. Environmental factors including culture medium can influence the biomass and ultimately β-glucan content. Therefore, cultivation conditions for the above organisms can be controlled for sustainable enhanced production of β-glucans. This review discusses the various sources of β-glucans and their cultivation conditions that may be optimised to exploit sustainable production. Finally, this article discusses the immune-modulatory potential of β-glucans from these sources.

Antitumor Properties of Matrikines of Different Origins: Prospects and Problems of Their Application

Matrikines (MKs) can be a rich source of functional nutrition components and additional therapy, thereby contributing to human health care and reducing the risk of developing serious diseases, including cancer. Currently, functionally active MKs as products of enzymatic transformation by matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) are used for various biomedical purposes. Due to the absence of toxic side effects, low species specificity, relatively small size, and presence of various targets at the cell membranes, MKs often exhibit antitumor properties and, therefore, are promising agents for antitumor combination therapy. This review summarizes and analyzes the current data on the antitumor activity of MKs of different origins, discusses the problems and prospects for their therapeutic use, and evaluates the experimental results of studying the antitumor properties of MKs from different echinoderm species generated with the help of a complex of proteolytic enzymes from red king crab Paralithodes camtschatica. Special attention is paid to the analysis of possible mechanisms of the antitumor action of various functionally active MKs, products of the enzymatic activity of various MMPs, and the existing problems for their use in antitumor therapy.

Exploring Bioactive Compounds in Brown Seaweeds Using Subcritical Water: A Comprehensive Analysis

In this study, we characterized the bioactive properties of three important brown seaweed species, Sargassum thunbergii, Undaria pinnatifida, and Saccharina japonica, by subcritical water extraction (SWE), as these species are well known for their beneficial health effects. Their physiochemical properties, including potential antioxidant, antihypertensive, and α-glucosidase inhibitory activity, and the antibacterial activity of the hydroysates were also analyzed. The highest total phlorotannin, total sugar content, and reducing sugar content in the S. thunbergii hydrolysates were 38.82 ± 0.17 mg PGE/g, 116.66 ± 0.19 mg glucose/g dry sample, and 53.27 ± 1.57 mg glucose/g dry sample, respectively. The highest ABTS⁺ and DPPH antioxidant activities were obtained in the S. japonica hydrolysates (124.77 ± 2.47 and 46.35 ± 0.01 mg Trolox equivalent/g, respectively) and the highest FRAP activity was obtained in the S. thunbergii hydrolysates (34.47 ± 0.49 mg Trolox equivalent/g seaweed). In addition, the seaweed extracts showed antihypertensive (≤59.77 ± 0.14%) and α-glucosidase inhibitory activity (≤68.05 ± 1.15%), as well as activity against foodborne pathogens. The present findings provide evidence of the biological activity of brown seaweed extracts for potential application in the food, pharmaceutical, and cosmetic sectors.

Phytoremediation of Wastewater Containing Lead and Manganese Ions Using Algae

Heavy metal pollution of water from industrial discharge is a major problem worldwide. Thus, the quality of the environment and human health are severely affected. Various conventional technologies have been applied for water treatment, but these can be expensive, especially for industrial water treatment, and may have limited treatment efficiencies. Phytoremediation is a method that is successfully applied to remove metal ions from wastewater. In addition to the high efficiency of the depollution treatment, this method has the advantages of a low cost of the operation and the existence of many plants that can be used. This article presents the results of using algae (Sargassum fusiforme and Enteromorpha prolifera) to treat water containing manganese and lead ions. It was observed that maximum efficiencies for wastewater treatment were obtained when was used the algae Enteromorpha prolifera for a 600 min contact time period. The highest wastewater treatment efficiency obtained using Sargassum fusiforme was 99.46%.

Polysaccharides-Naturally Occurring Immune Modulators

The prevention of disease and infection requires immune systems that operate effectively. This is accomplished by the elimination of infections and abnormal cells. Immune or biological therapy treats disease by either stimulating or inhibiting the immune system, dependent upon the circumstances. In plants, animals, and microbes, polysaccharides are abundant biomacromolecules. Due to the intricacy of their structure, polysaccharides may interact with and impact the immune response; hence, they play a crucial role in the treatment of several human illnesses. There is an urgent need for the identification of natural biomolecules that may prevent infection and treat chronic disease. This article addresses some of the naturally occurring polysaccharides of known therapeutic potential that have already been identified. This article also discusses extraction methods and immunological modulatory capabilities.

Biotechnological product potential of Auxenochlorella protothecoides including biologically active compounds (BACs) under nitrogen stress conditions

Nitrogen stress can influence microalgae's growth characteristics, and microalgae grown in nitrogen-deficient conditions may produce higher or lower levels of biotechnological products as a result of metabolic changes. In photoautotrophic and heterotrophic cultures, nitrogen limitation has been proven effective in promoting lipid accumulation. In spite of this, no study has demonstrated a significant correlation between lipid content and other biotechnological products such as bioactive compounds (BACs). This research examines a strategy for lipid accumulation as well as the potential production of BACs with antibacterial properties in parallel with that strategy. This concept involved the treatment of the microalga Auxenochlorella protothecoides with low and high concentrations of ammonium (NH₄⁺). This particular experiment reached a maximum lipid content of 59.5% using a 0.8 mM NH₄⁺ concentration, resulting in the yellowing of the chlorophyll levels. Agar diffusion assays were conducted to determine the antibacterial activity of different extracts derived from the biomass when stressed with different levels of nitrogen. Algal extracts prepared by a variety of solvents showed different levels of antibacterial activity against representative strains of both gram-negative (Escherichia coli) and gram-positive (Staphylococcus aureus) bacteria. Among the extracts tested, 500 mg/L ethyl acetate extract had the greatest antibacterial activity against Escherichia coli. In order to identify the components responsible for the extract's antibacterial activity, fatty acid methyl ester (FAME) analysis was performed. It has been suggested that the lipid fraction may be a valuable indicator of these activities since some lipid components are known to possess antimicrobial properties. In this regard, it was found that the amount of polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA) significantly decreased by 53.4% under the conditions with the highest antibacterial activity observed.

Effect of mussel polysaccharide on glucolipid metabolism and intestinal flora in type 2 diabetic mice

BACKGROUND

Type 2 diabetes (T2D) mellitus is a major metabolic disease, and its incidence and lethality have increased significantly in recent years, making it a serious threat to human health. Among numerous previous studies, polysaccharides have been shown to alleviate the adverse effects of T2D, but there are still problems such as insufficient analysis and poor understanding of the mechanisms by which polysaccharides, especially those of marine origin, regulate T2D.

METHODS

In this study, we used multiple allosteric approaches to further investigate the regulatory effects of mussel polysaccharides (MPs) on T2D and gut microbiota disorders in mice by identifying changes in genes, proteins, metabolites and target organs associated with glucolipid metabolism using an animal model of T2D fed with high-fat diets, and to explore the underlying molecular mechanisms.

RESULTS

After MP intervention, serum levels of superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) were up-regulated, and blood glucose and lipid levels were effectively reduced in T2D mice. Activation of signaling molecules related to the upstream and downstream of the insulin PI3K/Akt signaling pathway reduced hepatic insulin resistance. The relative abundance of short-chain fatty acid (SCFA)-producing bacteria (including Akkermansia, Siraeum Eubacterium and Allobaculum) increased and harmful desulfurizing Vibrio decreased. In addition, the levels of SCFAs were increased.

CONCLUSION

These results suggest that MP can increase SCFA levels by altering the abundance of intestinal flora, thereby activating the PI3K/Akt signaling pathway and exerting hypoglycemic effects. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry.

The Biochemistry and Effectiveness of Antioxidants in Food, Fruits, and Marine Algae

It is more effective to maintain good health than to regain it after losing it. This work focuses on the biochemical defense mechanisms against free radicals and their role in building and maintaining antioxidant shields, aiming to show how to balance, as much as possible, the situations in which we are exposed to free radicals. To achieve this aim, foods, fruits, and marine algae with a high antioxidant content should constitute the basis of nutritional elements, since natural products are known to have significantly greater assimilation efficiency. This review also gives the perspective in which the use of antioxidants can extend the life of food products, by protecting them from damage caused by oxidation as well as their use as food additives.

Evaluation of Lipid Extracts from the Marine Fungi Emericellopsis cladophorae and Zalerion maritima as a Source of Anti-Inflammatory, Antioxidant and Antibacterial Compounds

Marine environments occupy more than 70% of the earth's surface, integrating very diverse habitats with specific characteristics. This heterogeneity of environments is reflected in the biochemical composition of the organisms that inhabit them. Marine organisms are a source of bioactive compounds, being increasingly studied due to their health-beneficial properties, such as antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, antiviral, or anticancer. In the last decades, marine fungi have stood out for their potential to produce compounds with therapeutic properties. The objective of this study was to determine the fatty acid profile of isolates from the fungi Emericellopsis cladophorae and Zalerion maritima and assess the anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antibacterial potential of their lipid extracts. The analysis of the fatty acid profile, using GC-MS, showed that E. cladophorae and Z. maritima possess high contents of polyunsaturated fatty acids, 50% and 34%, respectively, including the omega-3 fatty acid 18:3 n-3. Emericellopsis cladophorae and Z. maritima lipid extracts showed anti-inflammatory activity expressed by the capacity of their COX-2 inhibition which was 92% and 88% of inhibition at 200 µg lipid mL-1, respectively. Emericellopsis cladophorae lipid extracts showed a high percentage of inhibition of COX -2 activity even at low concentrations of lipids (54% of inhibition using 20 µg lipid mL-1), while a dose-dependent behaviour was observed in Z. maritima. The antioxidant activity assays of total lipid extracts demonstrated that the lipid extract from E. cladophorae did not show antioxidant activity, while Z. maritima gave an IC20 value of 116.6 ± 6.2 µg mL-1 equivalent to 92.1 ± 4.8 µmol Trolox g-1 of lipid extract in the DPPH• assay, and 101.3 ± 14.4 µg mL-1 equivalent to 106.6 ± 14.8 µmol Trolox g-1 of lipid extract in the ABTS•+ assay. The lipid extract of both fungal species did not show antibacterial properties at the concentrations tested. This study is the first step in the biochemical characterization of these marine organisms and demonstrates the bioactive potential of lipid extracts from marine fungi for biotechnological applications.

Combined Intake of Fish Oil and D-Fagomine Prevents High-Fat High-Sucrose Diet-Induced Prediabetes by Modulating Lipotoxicity and Protein Carbonylation in the Kidney

Obesity has been recognized as a major risk factor for chronic kidney disease, insulin resistance being an early common metabolic feature in patients suffering from this syndrome. This study aims to investigate the mechanism underlying the induction of kidney dysfunction and the concomitant onset of insulin resistance by long-term high-fat and sucrose diet feeding in Sprague Dawley rats. To achieve this goal, our study analyzed renal carbonylated protein patterns, ectopic lipid accumulation and fatty acid profiles and correlated them with biometrical and biochemical measurements and other body redox status parameters. Rats fed the obesogenic diet developed a prediabetic state and incipient kidney dysfunction manifested in increased plasma urea concentration and superior levels of renal fat deposition and protein carbonylation. An obesogenic diet increased renal fat by preferentially promoting the accumulation of saturated fat, arachidonic, and docosahexaenoic fatty acids while decreasing oleic acid. Renal lipotoxicity was accompanied by selectively higher carbonylation of proteins involved in the blood pH regulation, i.e., bicarbonate reclamation and synthesis, amino acid, and glucose metabolisms, directly related to the onset of insulin resistance. This study also tested the combination of antioxidant properties of fish oil with the anti-diabetic properties of buckwheat D-Fagomine to counteract diet-induced renal alterations. Results demonstrated that bioactive compounds combined attenuated lipotoxicity, induced more favorable lipid profiles and counteracted the excessive carbonylation of proteins associated with pH regulation in the kidneys, resulting in an inhibition of the progression of the prediabetes state and kidney disease.

A novel therapeutic effect of mannitol-rich extract from the brown seaweed Sargassum ilicifolium using in vitro and in vivo models

BACKGROUND

Wound healing is an active, complex, integrated series of cellular, physiological, and biochemical changes initiated by the stimulus of injury in a tissue. The present study was performed to investigate the potential wound healing abilities of Sargassum ilicifolium crude extracts (CE) that were characterized by 1H NMR and FTIR Spectrometric measurements.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Seaweed samples were collected from southern coastal sites of Sri Lanka. To determine the cytotoxicity and proliferation of S. ilicifolium CE were used for the MTT and alamarBlue assays respectively. The scratch and exclusion wound models were used to HaCaT and HDF cells to assess the cell proliferation and migration. RAW 264.7 cells (macrophages) were used to evaluate Nitric Oxide (NO) production and phagocytosis activities. Moreover, Fifteen, 8-week-old, female, New Zealand rabbits were selected and divided into five groups: excision skin wounds (10.40 ± 0.60 mm) were induced in groups I, II, and III. Rabbits in groups I and IV were given S. ilicifolium CE (orally, 100 mg/kg day, two weeks), whereas groups II and V were given equal amounts of distilled water. Wound healing properties were measured and wound tissue samples were collated, formalin-fixed, wax-embedded, stained (Hematoxylin and Eosin; Van Gieson) and examined for the healing process.

RESULTS

Anti-inflammatory and wound healing activities were observed in RAW 264.7, HDF and HaCaT cells treated with S. ilicifolium aqueous extracts when compared to the control groups. S. ilicifolium extracts concentration 8 - 4 μg/μL, (P<0.05) had remarkable the highest proliferative and migratory effects on RAW 264.7, HDF and HaCaT cells when compared with the control. RAW 264.7 cell proliferation and/or migration were higher in S. ilicifolium extracts (4 μg/μL, 232.8 ± 10.07%) compared with the control (100 %). Scratch wound healing were remarkably enhanced in 24 h, 48 h (P<0.05) when treated with S. ilicifolium on HaCaT cells. Rabbits treated with the CE of S. ilicifolium showed a significantly increased wound healing activities (P<0.05) within three days with a close wound area of 57.21 ± 0.77 % compared with control group (26.63 ± 1.09 %). Histopathology, aspartate aminotransferase and alanine aminotransferase levels evidenced no toxic effects on seaweed treated groups. Histopathological results also revealed that the healing process was significantly faster in the rabbit groups which were as treated with CE of S. ilicifolium orally with the evidence of enhanced early granulation tissue (connective tissue and angiogenesis) and significant epithelization compared to the control.

CONCLUSIONS

Cell proliferation and migration are significantly faster when treated with S. ilicifolium aqueous extracts. Moreover, there are no toxic effect of S. ilicifolium aqueous extracts on RAW 264.7, HDF and HaCaT cell lines. In this study, it is revealed that S. ilicifolium has potential remedial agent; D-Mannitol for skin wound healing properties that by promote keratinocyte and fibroblast proliferation and migration. These findings show that S. ilicifolium have promising wound healing properties.

Identification of Bioactive Peptides from a Laminaria digitata Protein Hydrolysate Using In Silico and In Vitro Methods to Identify Angiotensin-1-Converting Enzyme (ACE-1) Inhibitory Peptides

Bioactive peptides range in size from 2-30 amino acids and may be derived from any protein-containing biomass using hydrolysis, fermentation or high-pressure processing. Pro-peptides or cryptides result in shorter peptide sequences following digestion and may have enhanced bioactivity. Previously, we identified a protein hydrolysate generated from Laminaria digitata that inhibited ACE-1 in vitro and had an ACE-1 IC50 value of 590 µg/mL compared to an ACE-1 IC50 value of 500 µg/mL (~2.3 µM) observed for the anti-hypertensive drug Captopril©. A number of peptide sequences (130 in total) were identified using mass spectrometry from a 3 kDa permeate of this hydrolysate. Predicted bioactivities for these peptides were determined using an in silico strategy previously published by this group utilizing available databases including Expasy peptide cutter, BIOPEP and Peptide Ranker. Peptide sequences YIGNNPAKGGLF and IGNNPAKGGLF had Peptide Ranker scores of 0.81 and 0.80, respectively, and were chemically synthesized. Synthesized peptides were evaluated for ACE-1 inhibitory activity in vitro and were found to inhibit ACE-1 by 80 ± 8% and 91 ± 16%, respectively. The observed ACE-1 IC50 values for IGNNPAKGGLF and YIGNNPAKGGLF were determined as 174.4 µg/mL and 133.1 µg/mL. Both peptides produced sequences following simulated digestion with the potential to inhibit Dipeptidyl peptidase IV (DPP-IV).

Chlamydomonas reinhardtii: A Factory of Nutraceutical and Food Supplements for Human Health

Chlamydomonas reinhardtii (C. reinhardtii) is one of the most well-studied microalgae organisms that revealed important information for the photosynthetic and metabolic processes of plants and eukaryotes. Numerous extensive studies have also underpinned its great potential as a biochemical factory, capable of producing various highly desired molecules with a direct impact on human health and longevity. Polysaccharides, lipids, functional proteins, pigments, hormones, vaccines, and antibodies are among the valuable biomolecules that are produced spontaneously or under well-defined conditions by C. reinhardtii and can be directly linked to human nutrition and diet. The aim of this review is to highlight the recent advances in the field focusing on the most relevant applications related to the production of important biomolecules for human health that are also linked with human nutrition and diet. The limitations and challenges are critically discussed along with the potential future applications of C. reinhardtii biomass and processed products in the field of nutraceuticals and food supplements. The increasing need for high-value and low-cost biomolecules produced in an environmentally and economy sustainable manner also underline the important role of C. reinhardtii.

Recovery of Bioactive Compounds from Marine Organisms: Focus on the Future Perspectives for Pharmacological, Biomedical and Regenerative Medicine Applications of Marine Collagen

Marine environments cover more than 70% of the Earth's surface and are among the richest and most complex ecosystems. In terms of biodiversity, the ocean represents an important source, still not widely exploited, of bioactive products derived from species of bacteria, plants, and animals. However, global warming, in combination with multiple anthropogenic practices, represents a serious environmental problem that has led to an increase in gelatinous zooplankton, a phenomenon referred to as jellyfish bloom. In recent years, the idea of "sustainable development" has emerged as one of the essential elements of green-economy initiatives; therefore, the marine environment has been re-evaluated and considered an important biological resource. Several bioactive compounds of marine origin are being studied, and among these, marine collagen represents one of the most attractive bio-resources, given its use in various disciplines, such as clinical applications, cosmetics, the food sector, and many other industrial applications. This review aims to provide a current overview of marine collagen applications in the pharmacological and biomedical fields, regenerative medicine, and cell therapy.

Influence of magnesium concentrations on the biomass and biochemical variations in the freshwater algae, Chlorella vulgaris

The current study deals with the biological response variations on some biochemical properties of the freshwater green algae Chlorella vulgaris by exposure to different Mg²⁺ concentrations (5, 10, and 15) mg/L. Physiological and biochemical parameters, including growth curve, doubling time, photosynthesis pigments, total protein and carbohydrates were investigated. Moreover, enzymatic parameters such as catalase (CAT), superoxide dismutase (SOD), and reactive oxygen species (ROS) were also examined. The maximum growth rate was 0.482/day during the 9th day with 5 mg/L Mg²⁺, while the minimum was 0.019/day during the 13th and 14th days with 10 mg/L Mg²⁺. Furthermore, doubling time ranged between 15.501 during the 13th day with 10 mg/L Mg²⁺, and 0.624 during the 9th day with 5 mg/L. The maximum value of chlorophyll-a was 0.157 μg/mL during the 1st day with 10 mg/L Mg²⁺, while the minimum was 0.062 μg/mL during the 14th day with 15 mg/L Mg²⁺. The carotenoid ranged between 0.029 μg/mL during the 7th day with 15 mg/L Mg²⁺ and 0.002 μg/mL during the 14th day. The maximum protein value was 9.620 μg/L during the 1st day with 15 mg/L Mg²⁺, while the minimum was 1.772 μg/L during the 14th day with 15 mg/L Mg²⁺. The carbohydrate showed a maximum value of 0.824 μg/mL during the 1st day with 10 mg/L Mg²⁺, while the minimum was 0.293 μg/mL during the 14th day with 15 mg/L. Moreover, SOD ranged between 0.884 unit/L during the 1st day with 15 mg/L Mg²⁺, and 0.073 unit/L as the minimum value during the 14th day with 15 mg/L Mg²⁺. The maximum value of ROS was 3.627 mM/mL during the 1st day with 5 and 15 mg/L Mg²⁺, while the minimum was 1.674 mM/mL during the 14th day with 10 mg/L. The results show that values of CAT ranged between 0.200 unit/mL during the 7th day with 10 mg/L Mg²⁺, and 0.010 unit/mL during the 14th day with 15 mg/L. Overall, 5 mg/L for biomass production and 15 mg/L for protein and carbohydrate production were optimum doses.

Desmosterol: A natural product derived from macroalgae modulates inflammatory response and oxidative stress pathways in intestinal epithelial cells

The serum level of cholesterol and its biosynthetic intermediates are critical indicators to access metabolism-related disorders in humans and animals. However, the molecular actions of these intermediates on gene functions and regulation remained elusive. Here, we show that desmosterol (DES) is the most abundant intermediate involved in cholesterol biosynthesis and is highly enriched in red/brown algae. It exerts a pivotal role in modulating core genes involved in oxidative stress and inflammatory response processes in the ileum epithelial cells (IPI-2I). We observed that the DES extracted from red algae did not affect IPI-2I cell growth or survival. A transcriptomic measurement revealed that the genes enrolled in the oxidative process and cholesterol homeostasis pathway were significantly down-regulated by DES treatment. Consistent with this notion, cellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels were markedly decreased in response to DES treatment. In contrast, key inflammatory genes including IL-6, TNF-α, and IFN-γ were remarkably upregulated in the RNA-seq analysis, as further confirmed by qRT-PCR. Given that DES is a specific agonist of nuclear receptor RORγ, we also found that DES caused the elevated expression of RORγ at mRNA and protein levels, suggesting it is a potential mediator under DES administration. Together, these results underscore the vital physiological actions of DES in inflammatory and oxidative processes possibly via RORγ, and may be helpful in anti-oxidation treatment and immunotherapy in the future.

Potential of Spirulina platensis as a feed supplement for poultry to enhance growth performance and immune modulation

Increase in drug resistance as well as ineffective immunization efforts against various pathogens (viruses, bacteria and fungi) pose a significant threat to the poultry industry. Spirulina is one of the most widely used natural ingredients which is becoming popular as a nutritional supplement in humans, animals, poultry and aquaculture. It contains protein, vitamins, minerals, fatty acids, pigments, and essential amino acids. Moreover, it also has considerable quantities of unique natural antioxidants including polyphenols, carotenoids, and phycocyanin. Dietary supplementation of Spirulina can beneficially affect gut microbial population, serum biochemical parameters, and growth performance of chicken. Additionally, it contains polyphenolic contents having antibacterial effects. Spirulina extracts might inhibit bacterial motility, invasion, biofilm formation, and quorum sensing in addition to acting directly on the bacterium by weakening and making the bacterial cell walls more porous, subsequently resulting in cytoplasmic content leakage. Additionally, Spirulina has shown antiviral activities against certain common human or animal viruses and this capability can be considered to exhibit potential benefits against avian viruses also. Spirulan, a calcium-rich internal polysaccharide of Spirulina, is potentially responsible for its antiviral effect through inhibiting the entry of several viruses into the host cells, boosting the production of nitric oxide in macrophages, and stimulating the generation of cytokines. Comparatively a greater emphasis has been given to the immune modulatory effects of Spirulina as a feed additive in chicken which might boost disease resistance and improve survival and growth rates, particularly under stress conditions. This manuscript reviews biological activities and immune-stimulating properties of Spirulina and its potential use as a dietary supplement in poultry to enhance growth, gut health and disease resistance.

Antimicrobial therapeutics isolated from algal source: retrospect and prospect

In the last few decades, attention on new natural antimicrobial compounds has arisen due to a change in consumer preferences and the increase in the number of resistant microorganisms. Algae are defined as photosynthetic organisms that demonstrate a wide range of adaptability to adverse environmental conditions like temperature extremes, photo-oxidation, high or low salinity, and osmotic stress. Algae are primarily known to produce large amounts of secondary metabolite against various kinds of pathogenic microbes. Among these algae, micro and microalgae of river, lake, and algae of oceanic origin have been reported to have antimicrobial activity against the bacteria and fungi of pathogenic nature. Various polar and non- polar extracts of micro- and macro algae have been used for the suppression of these pathogenic fungi. Apart from these, certain algal derivatives have also been isolated from these having antibacterial and antifungal potential. Among the bioactive molecules of algae, polysaccharides, sulphated polysaccharides, phyco-cyanobilins polyphenols, lectins, proteins lutein, vitamin E, B₁₂ and K₁, peptides, polyunsaturated fatty acids and pigments can be highlighted. In the present review, we will discuss the biological activity of these derived compounds as antifungal/ antibacterial agents and their most promising applications. A brief outline is also given for the prospects of these isolated phytochemicals and using algae as therapeutic in the dietary form. We have also tried to answer whether alga-derived metabolites can serve as potential therapeutics for the treatment of SARS-CoV-2 like viral infections too.

Anti-Inflammatory Effects of Marine Bioactive Compounds and Their Potential as Functional Food Ingredients in the Prevention and Treatment of Neuroinflammatory Disorders

Functional foods include enhanced, enriched, fortified, or whole foods that impart health benefits beyond their nutritional value, particularly when consumed as part of a varied diet on a regular basis at effective levels. Marine sources can serve as the sources of various healthy foods and numerous functional food ingredients with biological effects can be derived from these sources. Microalgae, macroalgae, crustaceans, fungi, bacteria fish, and fish by-products are the most common marine sources that can provide many potential functional food ingredients including phenolic compounds, proteins and peptides, and polysaccharides. Neuroinflammation is closely linked with the initiation and progression of various neurodegenerative diseases, including Alzheimer's disease, Huntington's disease, and Parkinson's disease. Activation of astrocytes and microglia is a defense mechanism of the brain to counter damaged tissues and detrimental pathogens, wherein their chronic activation triggers neuroinflammation that can further exacerbate or induce neurodegeneration. Currently, available therapeutic agents only provide symptomatic relief from these disorders and no therapies are available to stop or slow down the advancement of neurodegeneration. Thereffore, natural compounds that can exert a protective effect against these disorders have therapeutic potential. Numerous chemical compounds, including bioactive peptides, fatty acids, pigments, alkaloids, and polysaccharides, have already been isolated from marine sources that show anti-inflammatory properties, which can be effective in the treatment and prevention of neuroinflammatory disorders. The anti-inflammatory potential of marine-derived compounds as functional food ingredients in the prevention and treatment of neurological disorders is covered in this review.

Codium fragile reduces adipose tissue expansion and fatty liver incidence by downregulating adipo- and lipogenesis

Codium fragile (C. fragile) is a marine alga with high functional food potential. Recent studies have proven C. fragile extract (CFE) effective against obesity. However, the exact underlying mechanism of CFE's anti-obesity effects remains unclear. Herein, CFE was orally administered to male C57BL/6 mice for 7 weeks, along with a high-fat diet. CFE (100 mg/kg) effectively induced weight loss, lowered serum cholesterol levels, and suppressed adipocyte differentiation in white adipose tissue (WAT). Furthermore, CFE effectively reduced hepatic total triglyceride, cholesterol, and lipid levels, while significantly improving liver size and color. mRNA expression analysis in WAT and liver tissue revealed that CFE significantly suppressed the expression of PPARγ and aP-2 in adipocyte differentiation, and SREBP-1c and FAS in de novo lipogenesis, suggesting that CFE's anti-obesity effect is exerted by gene inhibition. PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS: Research on marine plants with anti-obesity effects has been increasing recently. This study demonstrated that C. fragile extract (CFE) is effective in reducing body weight and suppressing adipocyte differentiation, along with the improvement of fatty liver in mice fed with a high-fat diet (HFD). The anti-obesity effect of CFE was exhibited by the down-regulation of adipogenesis and lipogenesis, respectively. Based on these results, C. fragile could be useful, not only to effectively combat obesity but also in improving obesity-induced liver dysfunction.