Potential Biological Activities Associated with Algal Derived Compounds

There are ancient histories of macro- and microalgae consumption comprising Ochrophyta, Chlorophyceae, and Rhodophyceae divisions, as well as Dinoflagellata, Cryptophyta, Raphidophyta, and Cyanophyta divisions for the former and latter taxonomies throughout Asia and the Pacific, versus comparatively lower intakes in Europe and the Americas. These dietary patterns between populations are coincident with differences in diet-related chronic disease risks including breast cancer in these peoples. In vitro, animal models as well as clinical studies suggest bioactive roles for edible macro- and microalgae constituents including macro- and micronutrients and secondary metabolites. For example, as photosynthetic organisms subject to oxidative stress including desiccation and UV irradiation, macro- and microalgae require an extensive endogenous antioxidant capacity. Biological activities ascribed to macro- and microalgae include anticarcinogenic, antiobesogenic, immune system activation, modulation of blood glucose, lipids, and antioxidant capacities. This chapter reviews the evidence underlying the biological activities of macro- and microalgal constituents and the proposed mechanisms of action.