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Review
. 2023 Dec 31;13(1):113.
doi: 10.3390/plants13010113.

Understanding Macroalgae: A Comprehensive Exploration of Nutraceutical, Pharmaceutical, and Omics Dimensions

Sivakumar Adarshan  1 , Vairavel Sivaranjani Sivani Sree  2 , Pandiyan Muthuramalingam  3   4 , Krishnanjana S Nambiar  2 , Murugan Sevanan  2 , Lakkakula Satish  5 , Baskar Venkidasamy  4 , Peerzada Gh Jeelani  6 , Hyunsuk Shin  3
Affiliations
Review

Understanding Macroalgae: A Comprehensive Exploration of Nutraceutical, Pharmaceutical, and Omics Dimensions

Sivakumar Adarshan et al. Plants (Basel). .

Abstract

Driven by a surge in global interest in natural products, macroalgae or seaweed, has emerged as a prime source for nutraceuticals and pharmaceutical applications. Characterized by remarkable genetic diversity and a crucial role in marine ecosystems, these organisms offer not only substantial nutritional value in proteins, fibers, vitamins, and minerals, but also a diverse array of bioactive molecules with promising pharmaceutical properties. Furthermore, macroalgae produce approximately 80% of the oxygen in the atmosphere, highlighting their ecological significance. The unique combination of nutritional and bioactive attributes positions macroalgae as an ideal resource for food and medicine in various regions worldwide. This comprehensive review consolidates the latest advancements in the field, elucidating the potential applications of macroalgae in developing nutraceuticals and therapeutics. The review emphasizes the pivotal role of omics approaches in deepening our understanding of macroalgae's physiological and molecular characteristics. By highlighting the importance of omics, this review also advocates for continued exploration and utilization of these extraordinary marine organisms in diverse domains, including drug discovery, functional foods, and other industrial applications. The multifaceted potential of macroalgae warrants further research and development to unlock their full benefits and contribute to advancing global health and sustainable industries.

Keywords: macroalgae; natural products; nutraceuticals; omics approaches; pharmaceuticals.

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Conflict of interest statement

The authors declare no conflict of interest.

Figures

Figure 1
Figure 1
(a) Nutraceutical applications of macroalgae, (b) Macroalgal active ingredients.
Figure 1
Figure 1
(a) Nutraceutical applications of macroalgae, (b) Macroalgal active ingredients.
Figure 2
Figure 2
Omics approaches in macroalgal research.
Figure 3
Figure 3
General industrial method of extraction and purification.
Figure 4
Figure 4
Macroalgal research in enhancing the level of bioactive compounds.
See this image and copyright information in PMC

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