engleski

Macroalgal polyphenols: isolation, characterization and bioactivity

Marine macroalgae, which are a part of the common diet in the Asian culture and which have beneficial properties for human health, have drawn attention because of the possibility for their application in various branches of industry, due to their bioactive compounds which have shown properties that can be beneficial for human health. Macroalgae, aside from being a good source of essential amino acids, fatty acids, dietary fiber and minerals, represent an under-exploited source of phenolic compounds known for their high potential in therapeutic and industrial applications. The production of phenolic compounds in marine algae has been involved in protection against stress conditions, such as the production of antioxidant compounds. Polyphenolic compounds such as catechins and flavonols are the most dominant polyphenols in all classes of macroalgae: Chlorophyta (green algae), Rhodophyta (red algae) and Phaeophyta (brown algae). The latter contain a particular type of polyphenols called phlorotannins (polymers of 1, 3, 5-trihydroxybenzene) with various types of bioactivity. The concentration of polyphenols varies among the classes of macroalgae because of the different chemical composition, geographical occurrence of particular species, seasonal variations and the variation is also present within the different parts of thalli. The extraction of these compounds can be performed by conventional or alternative/modern methods. The modern methods have mostly been used in the last few decades because of their benefits in comparison to the conventional methods. It is necessary to find the most efficient method for obtaining the highest concentration of polyphenols in the extract. Aside from the antioxidant potential of macroalgal polyphenols, they also have anti- inflammatory, antibacterial and anti-allergic properties. They have a high potential for implementation in functional foods as naturally obtained compounds, as well as for replacing available synthetic compounds. This chapter will highlight the application of the most active compounds present in marine macroalgae known as polyphenols, as well as their isolation using green extraction methods. Their bioactive properties will be reviewed and their potential for health improvement will be evaluated.

marine macroalgae ; polyphenols ; extraction ; bioactivity

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