Algae, including microalgae and macroalgae, are prolific producers of structurally diverse bioactive compounds with broad pharmacological activities. Their biochemical repertoire-polysaccharides, polyphenols, carotenoids, fatty acids, sterols, peptides, and pigments-confers potent antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anticancer, immunomodulatory, antifibrotic, and antimicrobial effects. Sulfated polysaccharides like fucoidan and carrageenan modulate immune responses and fibrotic pathways, while pigments such as phycocyanin and carotenoids like astaxanthin and fucoxanthin protect against oxidative stress and cellular damage. Algal compounds also exhibit anticancer potential by inhibiting tumor growth, angiogenesis, and metastasis, and inducing apoptosis via NF- B, MAPK, and Akt/mTOR pathways. Furthermore, they show efficacy in models of respiratory, metabolic, and neurodegenerative diseases.

Autorentext

Mona Anwar Mohamed El-Banna, Professor at the National Research Centre, advances medical biochemistry through research and teaching. Her work focuses on disease mechanisms, metabolic disorders, and neurodegeneration, mentoring students and bridging research with clinical applications.