Algal bioactives: A respiratory future?
The prevalence of respiratory conditions, such as asthma, lung cancer and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, is rising globally. An increasing number of patients are suffering from altered lung function and reduced lung capacity. In severe cases, chronic respiratory conditions can lead to disability and death.
Current treatments for respiratory conditions largely focus on symptom management and improving quality of life. They typically include corticosteroids, bronchodilators and antifibrotic agents. Despite their benefits, they present a range of challenges including variable side effects, and both steroid and antibiotic resistance.
A recent review paper has examined a diverse range of algal bioactives, including fucoidans, exploring their potential to contribute to the future treatment of respiratory diseases. Research interest in many algal bioactives continues to increase as their wide-ranging anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, anticancer, and anti-fibrotic activities continue to be documented.
Researchers noted the antitumor, antioxidant, anticoagulant, antithrombotic, and antiviral activities of fucoidans. They identified that fucoidans hold potential for the future mitigation of inflammation in both chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and asthma.
The paper, ‘Algal bioactives: Unlocking future frontiers in respiratory therapeutics’ is available in Food Bioscience.