Big Things, Small Packages: An Update on Microalgae as Sustainable Sources of Nutraceutical Peptides for Promoting Cardiovascular Health

Abstract

In 2017, a review of microalgae protein‐derived bioactive peptides relevant in cardiovascular disease (CVD) management was published. Given the rapid evolution of the field, an update is needed to illumininate recent developments and proffer future suggestions. In this review, the scientific literature (2018–2022) is mined for that purpose and the relevant properties of the identified peptides related to CVD are discussed. The challenges and prospects for microalgae peptides are similarly discussed. Since 2018, several publications have independently confirmed the potential to produce microalgae protein‐derived nutraceutical peptides. Peptides that reduce hypertension (by inhibiting angiotensin converting enzyme and endothelial nitric oxide synthase), modulate dyslipidemia and have antioxidant and anti‐inflammatory properties have been reported, and characterized. Taken together, future research and development investments in nutraceutical peptides from microalgae proteins need to focus on the challenges of large‐scale biomass production, improvement in techniques for protein extraction, peptide release and processing, and the need for clinical trials to validate the claimed health benefits as well as formulation of various consumer products with the novel bioactive ingredients.

Protective effect of marine animals hydrolysis-peptides on adjuvant-induced arthritis in mice by gut microbiota and SCFAs

“…AIA is a well-known experimental model of polyarthritis that resembles RA and exhibits many clinical features, including limb edema, joint inflammation, synovial hyperplasia, and cartilage damage [36]. Natural marine products, particularly bioactive peptides, possess potential health benefits [37]. In this study, we observed that the major marine animals-derived peptides, such as those obtained from A. japonicus, A. leucoprocta, M. aeglefinus, P. esculenta and R. esculentum, have assisted in alleviating arthritis in mice to different degrees.…”

Potential of fish bioactive peptides for the prevention of global pandemic non-communicable disease: production, purification, identification, and health benefits

“…It is difficult to separate peptide fragments since they all have different sizes, charges, and physicochemical properties [15]. Utilising chromatography methods, biologically active peptides are usually segregated based on their molecular size, ionic charge, and differential affinity for the stationary and mobile phases [56,57]. To acquire desired peptides, those approaches remove the harmful residue and unwanted solvents.…”