Edible Seaweeds Extracts: Characterization and Functional Properties for Health Conditions

Abstract

Seaweeds are popular foods due to claimed beneficial health effects, but for many there is a lack of scientific evidence. In this study, extracts of the edible seaweeds Aramé, Nori, and Fucus are compared. Our approach intends to clarify similarities and differences in the health properties of these seaweeds, thus contributing to target potential applications for each. Additionally, although Aramé and Fucus seaweeds are highly explored, information on Nori composition and bioactivities is scarce. The aqueous extracts of the seaweeds were obtained by decoction, then fractionated and characterized according to their composition and biological activity. It was recognized that fractioning the extracts led to bioactivity reduction, suggesting a loss of bioactive compounds synergies. The Aramé extract showed the highest antioxidant activity and Nori exhibited the highest potential for acetylcholinesterase inhibition. The identification of the bioactive compounds in the extracts allowed to see that these contained a mixture of phloroglucinol polymers, and it was suggested that Nori’s effect on acetylcholinesterase inhibition may be associated with a smaller sized phlorotannins capable of entering the enzyme active site. Overall, these results suggest a promising potential for the use of these seaweed extracts, mainly Aramé and Nori, in health improvement and management of diseases, namely those associated to oxidative stress and neurodegeneration.

Elucidation and quantification health-promoting phenolic compounds, antioxidant properties and sugar levels of ultrasound assisted extraction, aroma compositions and amino acids profiles of macroalgae, Laurencia papillosa

“…Apart from accomplishing as antioxidants, phlorotannins, phloroglucinol, have been used effectively in preventing of neurological diseases, cancer, and intestinal disorders [27] . In addition, phloroglucinol has been demonstrated to have a wide range of biological actions, such as antibacterial activity, cytoprotective, anti-HIV-1, anti-inflammatory effect, anti-diabetic activity, wound healing property and decreasing the pain [28] , [29] .…”

Seaweeds as Nutraceutical Elements and Drugs for Diabetes Mellitus: Future Perspectives

“…Thus, the safety of the extracts and compounds derived from seaweeds is crucial for their use as drugs. Toxicological studies are required to determine their safety profiles [140,141].…”

“…The seaweed compounds can be a sustainable and environmentally friendly solution in the future. Seaweeds are a sustainable and environmentally friendly source of bioactive compounds compared to traditional medicinal plants [141,144].…”

Harnessing the power of seaweed: unveiling the potential of marine algae in drug discovery

“…The bioactive compounds found in seaweeds, particularly the phlorotannins, have displayed significant anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties [62]. These properties make them potential candidates for developing drugs to treat chronic inflammatory conditions, such as rheumatoid arthritis, as well as diseases associated with oxidative stress [63].…”