What is it about?
Our study explores tiny marine algae, Chaetoceros muelleri, from the Sea of Cortez, for hidden health treasures. We focused on special carbohydrates called sulfated polysaccharides (CMSPs). These microalgae are easy to grow, making them a sustainable source. We successfully extracted these unique carbohydrates and found promising results. Importantly, they are not toxic to human colon cells. They also showed antioxidant properties, which help protect our bodies from damage, and a low glycemic index, meaning they could help keep blood sugar levels stable. These findings suggest that CMSPs have exciting potential as ingredients in healthy foods or natural health supplements, opening doors for new, ocean-derived products to boost human well-being.
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Photo by Hiroko Yoshii on Unsplash
Why is it important?
Microalgae are a largely untapped source of beneficial compounds. This research identifies novel, non-toxic polysaccharides with antioxidant and glycemic benefits, paving the way for sustainable health solutions from the ocean.
Perspectives
Building on these initial findings, we aim to delve deeper into the exact chemical structure of these polysaccharides and understand how they work in the body. This could unlock their full potential for developing new functional foods, nutraceuticals, or even pharmaceutical ingredients, especially for managing blood sugar and fighting oxidative stress. Large-scale production is also a key perspective.
Dr. Anselmo Miranda-Baeza
Universidad Estatal de Sonora
Read the Original
This page is a summary of: Sulfated Polysaccharides from Chaetoceros muelleri: Macromolecular Characteristics and Bioactive Properties, Biology, October 2022, MDPI AG,
DOI: 10.3390/biology11101476.
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