Characterizing Eckol as a Therapeutic Aid: A Systematic Review

Abstract

The marine biosphere is a treasure trove of natural bioactive secondary metabolites and the richest source of structurally diverse and unique compounds, such as phlorotannins and halo-compounds, with high therapeutic potential. Eckol is a precursor compound representing the dibenzo-1,4-dioxin class of phlorotannins abundant in the Ecklonia species, which are marine brown algae having a ubiquitous distribution. In search of compounds having biological activity from macro algae during the past three decades, this particular compound has attracted massive attention for its multiple therapeutic properties and health benefits. Although several varieties of marine algae, seaweed, and phlorotannins have already been well scrutinized, eckol deserves a place of its own because of the therapeutic properties it possesses. The relevant information about this particular compound has not yet been collected in one place; therefore, this review focuses on its biological applications, including its potential health benefits and possible applications to restrain diseases leading to good health. The facts compiled in this review could contribute to novel insights into the functions of eckol and potentially enable its use in different uninvestigated fields.

Composition of Intracellular and Cell Wall-Bound Phlorotannin Fractions in Fucoid Algae Indicates Specific Functions of These Metabolites Dependent on the Chemical Structure

“…Moreover, P. canaliculata permanently hosts an endophytic fungus, thus gaining some lichen features [ 52 ]. As eckols exhibit considerable fungicidal activity [ 53 , 54 ], we suggest that relatively high levels of these phlorotannins in P. canaliculata ( Figure 5 ) may help to control the fungus infection. Polyphenols are known to be involved in the interactions between vascular plants and symbiotic fungi; in particular, mycorrhizal infection leads to changes in polyphenolic profiles [ 55 , 56 ].…”

“…Moreover, both zones showed more similarity with the corresponding zone of the other species, rather than with the other zones of the same alga ( Figure 5 ). Dibenzodioxin phlorotannins are known for being the most toxic and exhibiting the strongest antimicrobial and anti-herbivory activity [ 23 , 53 , 54 , 62 ]. Thus, enrichment of the pool of intracellular phlorotannins with these compounds may enhance chemical protection of algal tissues.…”

Algae Polyphenolic Compounds and Modern Antibacterial Strategies: Current Achievements and Immediate Prospects

“…Algae accumulate large amounts of these compounds, including, in particular, phloroglucinol and its polymers, phlorotannins (PT) [ 5 , 6 ]. Currently, scientists from many countries are showing increasing interest in these compounds, which is manifested as an increase in the number of publications on problems related to their biological activity worldwide [ 7 , 8 , 9 ].…”

Eckol from Ecklonia cava Suppresses Immunoglobulin E-mediated Mast Cell Activation and Passive Cutaneous Anaphylaxis in Mice

“…Marine algae are consumed by humans and used as medicinal sources owing to their biochemical properties and relative abundance [1][2][3]. Among marine seaweeds, brown algae (including Ecklonia species) have been investigated extensively as they contain phlorotannins, which possess various physiological properties.…”

“…Among marine seaweeds, brown algae (including Ecklonia species) have been investigated extensively as they contain phlorotannins, which possess various physiological properties. Furthermore, Ecklonia cava, brown algae in the family Lessoniaceae are characterized by abundant eckol-type phlorotannins [2][3][4]. Eckol is a precursor compound belonging to the dibenzo-1,4-dioxin class of phlorotannins and is a component of marine brown and red algae.…”