Marine organisms are rich sources of structurally diverse biologically active compounds with great cosmeceutical potential.1 Fucoidan – a complex polysaccharide naturally found in the cell walls of brown seaweeds – is a specialised compound rapidly growing in recognition for its unique cosmetic properties.
Fucoidans are the most abundant and most commercially available class of marine polysaccharides with bioactive potential.1 They are highly branched and heterodisperse molecules with varying degrees of sulfation and acetylation. Fucoidans differ greatly in their molecular structure and bioactivity according to the seaweed species from which they are derived and their extraction method
In nature, fucoidan plays an essential role in protecting seaweed from marineborne pathogens and environmental stresses. Fucoidan complements the activity of other algal compounds, including marine polyphenols. Similar to fucoidan, polyphenols - also known as phlorotannins are found in brown algae. Just like a bioactive ‘sunscreen’ for seaweed, fucoidan and polyphenols work together to create a defensive barrier between the plant’s cells and damaging UV rays, pathogens and pollutants.
The remarkable properties of fucoidan extend into human health, with over 1,600 scientific papers attesting to the safety and bioactivity of this unique marine compound. Studies demonstrate that fucoidan exhibits diverse range of benefits in human health, showing significant potential in gastrointestinal, anti-viral, immune modulatory, anti-inflammatory and complementary oncology applications.2
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