Bioactives From Brown Algae: Antioxidant, Anti-Inflammatory, Anticancer, and Antimicrobial Potential

Abstract

Brown algae have gained significant attention due to their abundance of bioactive compounds with promising bioactivities. This review comprehensively examines the primary bioactive compounds found in brown algae, including fucoidan, laminarin, alginates, phlorotannins, phenolic acids, flavonoids, fucoxanthin, fatty acids, fucosterol, and various vitamins and minerals. The bioactivities of these compounds are explored, focusing on their antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anticancer, and antimicrobial properties. By analyzing studies conducted between 2014 and 2024, this review provides a current and comprehensive understanding of these compounds’ effects and potential health benefits. Additionally, it discusses their present and future applications in pharmaceuticals, nutraceuticals, and functional foods, highlighting their market potential. This review also addresses key challenges such as regulatory compliance and chemical composition variability. Additionally, future perspectives are presented to guide upcoming research and development efforts to overcome these challenges and fully exploit these marine resources.