Chapter 36 - Biomedical applications of algal-based products

Increasing global morbidity is often associated with communicable or noncommunicable diseases; however, adverse drug effects have also been linked with an increase in mortality worldwide. This has emphasized the need for a wider range of biological therapeutics than is currently available, that are effective with reduced side effects for long-term use. Microalgae are renewable, sustainable and economical sources of aquaculture feed, food ingredients, biofuels, medical products and cosmeceuticals. Products from natural resources such as microalgae have gained increasing popularity for use in healthcare and disease prevention, as these microorganisms can produce bioactive compounds with multiple valuable biological properties such as antioxidant, immunomodulatory, anticancer, antidiabetic and cardiovascular activities. These compounds include vitamins, proteins containing essential amino acids, polysaccharides, fatty acids, minerals, pigments and enzymes. This chapter focuses on the biomedical applications of bioactive compounds obtained from microalgae. We also consider the challenges and future prospects of microalgae as a renewable and sustainable source to fulfill future global demands in the biomedical field.