Preliminary Investigation of the Antioxidant, Anti-Diabetic, and Anti-Inflammatory Activity of Enteromorpha intestinalis Extracts

Abstract

Marine algae are a promising source of potent bioactive agents against oxidative stress, diabetes, and inflammation. However, the possible therapeutic effects of many algal metabolites have not been exploited yet. In this regard, we explored the therapeutic potential of Enteromorpha intestinalis extracts obtained from methanol, ethanol, and hexane, in contrasting oxidative stress. The total phenolic (TPC) and flavonoids (TFC) content were quantified in all extracts, with ethanol yielding the best values (about 60 and 625 mg of gallic acid and rutin equivalents per gram of extract, respectively). Their antioxidant potential was also assessed through DPPH•, hydroxyl radical, hydrogen peroxide, and superoxide anion scavenging assays, showing a concentration-dependent activity which was greater in the extracts from protic and more polar solvents. The α-amylase and α-glucosidase activities were estimated for checking the antidiabetic capacity, with IC50 values of about 3.8 µg/mL for the methanolic extract, almost as low as those obtained with acarbose (about 2.8 and 3.3 µg/mL, respectively). The same extract also showed remarkable anti-inflammatory effect, as determined by hemolysis, protein denaturation, proteinase and lipoxygenase activity assays, with respectable IC50 values (about 11, 4, 6, and 5 µg/mL, respectively), also in comparison to commercially used drugs, such as acetylsalicylic acid.

Glucosidase Inhibitors Screening in Microalgae and Cyanobacteria Isolated from the Amazon and Proteomic Analysis of Inhibitor Producing Synechococcus sp. GFB01

“…With occurrence in animals, plants and microorganisms [ 24 , 25 , 26 , 27 ], the bioprospection of glucosidase inhibitors in sustainable natural sources was once concentrated on macroalgae [ 28 , 29 , 30 ] but it is interesting to look for alternatives with cheaper cultivation and that require less area, such as microalgae, including cyanobacteria [ 31 , 32 , 33 , 34 , 35 , 36 , 37 ]. The possibility of associating the production of these inhibitors with other metabolites of biotechnological interest produced by cyanobacteria, such as antioxidants [ 38 ]; pigments [ 39 ], acids and polysaccharides of cosmetic and pharmacological interest [ 40 , 41 ] in addition to joint production with polyhydroxybutyrate (PHB) [ 42 , 43 ] and biofuels [ 44 , 45 , 46 ], while mitigating CO 2 [ 43 , 44 ], is yet another advantage of this bacterial phylum.…”

The Marine-Derived Natural Product Epiloliolide Isolated from Sargassum horneri Regulates NLRP3 via PKA/CREB, Promoting Proliferation and Anti-Inflammatory Effects of Human Periodontal Ligament Cells

“…Interest and research in marine natural products continues to this day, and the development of healthy functional foods and pharmacological studies have been conducted [ 19 ]. Various pharmacological effects of marine-derived natural products, such as anti-inflammatory, anti-cancer, wound healing, and antioxidant activities, have been proven [ 20 , 21 , 22 ]. However, further research needs to be conducted to clarify the components, physiology, and pharmacological properties of natural products derived from the ocean that are still unknown.…”

Cyanobacteria and Algae-Derived Bioactive Metabolites as Antiviral Agents: Evidence, Mode of Action, and Scope for Further Expansion; A Comprehensive Review in Light of the SARS-CoV-2 Outbreak

“…In addition to preventing these chronic diseases, some of these metabolites have been also tested as antiviral agents against several virus-associated infections [ 8 ]. Moreover, both marine microalgae and macroalgae (seaweeds) contain high amounts of amino acids and vitamins [ 31 , 32 , 33 , 34 ], which might help to fight viral diseases [ 35 ].…”