Algae-Derived Bioactive Molecules for the Potential Treatment of SARS-CoV-2

Abstract

The recently emerged COVID-19 disease caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) has adversely affected the whole world. As a significant public health threat, it has spread worldwide. Scientists and global health experts are collaborating to find and execute speedy diagnostics, robust and highly effective vaccines, and therapeutic techniques to tackle COVID-19. The ocean is an immense source of biologically active molecules and/or compounds with antiviral-associated biopharmaceutical and immunostimulatory attributes. Some specific algae-derived molecules can be used to produce antibodies and vaccines to treat the COVID-19 disease. Algae have successfully synthesized several metabolites as natural defense compounds that enable them to survive under extreme environments. Several algae-derived bioactive molecules and/or compounds can be used against many diseases, including microbial and viral infections. Moreover, some algae species can also improve immunity and suppress human viral activity. Therefore, they may be recommended for use as a preventive remedy against COVID-19. Considering the above critiques and unique attributes, herein, we aimed to systematically assess algae-derived, biologically active molecules that could be used against this disease by looking at their natural sources, mechanisms of action, and prior pharmacological uses. This review also serves as a starting point for this research area to accelerate the establishment of anti-SARS-CoV-2 bioproducts.

Antiviral Activity of Two Marine Carotenoids against SARS-CoV-2 Virus Entry In Silico and In Vitro

“…According to studies so far, highly branched and sulfated polysaccharides with high molecular weight can effectively inhibit COVID-19 viral infection. Although carotenoids are known to have beneficial effects on health and diverse applications [ 32 ], such as antibacterial, antiviral, antifungal, anticancer, antidiabetic, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, anti-obesity, and neuroprotective applications, there are no studies related to how marine carotenoids can inhibit SARS-CoV-2 entry. These results show for the first time that SX, a marine carotenoid rather than polysaccharide, significantly inhibits SARS-CoV-2 viral infection without cytotoxicity at a dose of less than 100 μM.…”

Plant lectins as prospective antiviral biomolecules in the search for COVID-19 eradication strategies

“…GRFT has also been reported to inhibit SARS-CoV infectivity in previous in-vivo and in-vitro studies [133] . The following table, Table 3 lists some algae-derived mannose-specific antiviral lectins that have been reported to be potent inhibitors of different RNA viruses summarized by Alam et al [141] , and can be potent inhibitors of coronaviruses as well.…”

A Comprehensive Review about the Molecular Structure of Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2): Insights into Natural Products against COVID-19

“…Many mushroom species have been extensively studied and recorded as producers of immunomodulators, for example, Amanita pantherina, Agaricus blazei, A. bisporus, Boletus satanas, Cordyceps sinensis, Coprinus cinereus, Ganoderma lucidum, Ischnoderma resinosum, Laetiporus sulphureus, Lactarius deterrimus, Lentinus tigrinus, and Volvariella volvacea (Table S3) [209].…”