Editorial: Marine Algal Bioactive Molecules for Food and Pharmaceutical Applications

Kit-Leong Cheong¹Yang LIU²Suresh Veeraperumal^3*

• ¹College of Food Science and Technology, Guangdong Ocean University, Zhanjiang, Guangdong Province, China
• ²Department of Biology, College of Science, Shantou University, Guangdong, China, Guangdong, China
• ³Upstate Medical University, Syracuse, United States

stands to benefit significantly from marine algal metabolites. Algal extracts are currently being 32 investigated for potential applications in alleviating neurodegenerative diseases, enhancing 33 immune responses, and serving as adjunct therapies in cancer treatment. Empirical studies have 34 demonstrated the neuroprotective of algal metabolites. However, further research is 35 necessary to elucidate their mechanisms and our understanding of their therapeutic 36 applications, thus paving the way for novel pharmaceutical developments. Despite these promising 37 avenues, the field faces challenges, particularly concerning the sustainability of algal cultivation, 38the efficiency of extraction methods, and the regulatory frameworks governing the usage of marine 39 bioactives (Ahmed et al., 2024). underscoring its chemical composition and biological significance (Cheong et al., 2024). Their 51 review delves into the pharmacological properties of Asparagopsis, particularly its diverse 52 compounds, including polysaccharides, lipids, and bromoform, which exhibit antioxidative, 53 antimicrobial, and anti-inflammatory effects. Notably, the authors contextualize Asparagopsis 54 within pressing environmental discussions, especially regarding its role in reducing methane 55 emissions from livestock and its economic potential in the food and cosmetics industries. This dual 56 emphasis on health and environmental impact positions Asparagopsis as a crucial element in the 57 fight against climate change and its associated health challenges. 58Complementing this research topic, Gong et al. provides an in-depth exploration of the 59 chemical composition of various marine algal species, highlighting their diverse bioactive 60 profiles (Gong et al., 2024). Their review emphasizes polysaccharides, polyunsaturated fatty acids, 61 and antioxidants as key components warranting further investigation. Additionally, the authors 62 delve into fucoxanthin, shedding light on recent advancements in breeding and cultivation 63 techniques that optimize its production. They also evaluate the physiological benefits associated 64 with fucoxanthin, including its anti-obesity and anti-diabetic effects. These findings establish a 65 firm foundation for future studies aimed at harnessing this bioactive compound for functional food 66 applications and therapeutic interventions, underlining the potential of algal extracts to serve as 67 functional ingredients that enhance human health. 68Expanding upon these themes, Jin et al. delve into the applications of marine biopolymers 69 in bone tissue engineering, focusing specifically on the pharmacological properties of seaweed 70 polysaccharides (Jin et al., 2023). They examine how these biopolymers can be leveraged to 71 develop innovative scaffolding materials that support tissue regeneration. This exploration 72 underlines the potential of marine-derived substances in addressing significant biomedical 73 `3 challenges and opens new avenues for research that could lead to groundbreaking advancements 74 in regenerative medicine.Importantly, Naik et al. provide critical insights into the role of marine algal metabolites in 76 neurodegenerative diseases (Naik et al., Their review systematically examines these 77 compounds ' antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and neuroprotective properties, providing compelling 78 evidence for their potential therapeutic roles. By advocating for more rigorous clinical trials, they 79 stress the urgency of exploring these natural products as viable alternatives in mitigating the 80 burden of neurodegeneration, a pressing issue in modern medicine. By identifying the mechanisms 81 through which these metabolites exert their protective effects, the research highlights a promising 82 pathway for drug development focusing on natural alternatives. 83As the discourse surrounding marine algal bioactive molecules evolves, it is imperative to 84 recognize the multifaceted nature of these compounds. Their encapsulation of biological activities 85 makes them extraordinarily versatile, positioning them as valuable assets in developing functional 86 foods and therapeutic agents that address health concerns and contribute to the sustainability of 87 food systems (Ahmed et al., 2024). Moreover, the potential applications of marine bioactives 88 stretch beyond direct health benefits, as they may influence broader ecological and economic 89 landscapes. Cultivating marine algae can be a sustainable alternative to terrestrial agriculture, 90 potentially alleviating pressures on land-based resources while contributing to carbon 91 sequestration and biodiversity restoration. Furthermore, the commercialization of algal bioactives 92 can create new economic opportunities, from developing novel products to establishing sustainable 93 supply chains. To capitalize on the opportunities presented by marine algal bioactives, sustained 94 investment in research and development is crucial. This includes understanding the ecological 95 impact of algal cultivation, refining extraction methodologies to maximize yield and potency, and 96 navigating the regulatory landscape effectively to ensure safe and beneficial products reach the 97 market. 98In summary, exploring marine algal bioactive molecules represents a promising frontier in 99 addressing some of the most pressing challenges in health and sustainability today. Through the 100 collaborative efforts of researchers, industry stakeholders, and policymakers, we can harness the 101 potential of these remarkable resources to forge innovative solutions that promote well-being and 102 environmental stewardship. This special issue is vital to this dialogue, illuminating the pathways 103 forward in the responsible exploration and application of marine algal compounds. The potential 104 of marine algal bioactives is vast, and by working together, we can unlock it for the benefit of all. 105