Microalgae-derived biomolecule and nanoparticle conjugates: Emerging therapeutic platforms for cancer treatment

Nanoparticle-based drug delivery systems have the potential to provide a promising platform for overcoming the limitations of therapeutics in cancer treatment, thanks to advantages such as controlled release, tumor targeting, and reduced systemic toxicity. In parallel, microalgal biomolecules possess strong antioxidant and antiproliferative properties. However, these biomolecules are therapeutically limited due to their low stability and restricted bioavailability. The approach of using microalgal compounds in combination with nanoparticles both improves their pharmacokinetic properties and enhances multiple anticancer mechanisms (ROS modulation, caspase activation, etc.). This review focuses on the anticancer potential of microalgal biomolecules and nanoparticulate systems, the intracellular mechanisms of action of the conjugated platforms they form, and their biocompatibility advantages. It also describes the potential of conjugated platforms for future clinical applications, highlighting their importance as biologically synergistic and targeted next-generation therapeutic platforms in cancer treatment.