Impact of Algal Research and its Potential for Industrial Applications: A Review

Abstract

Marine biotechnology is a broad field with a profound and global sociological footprint. Within that sociological macrocosm, marine algae act as an emerging field of research that is exemplified by the superabundance of natural sources to harvest bioactive compounds. Algae synthesize a comprehensive array of bioactive compounds including polysaccharides, polyphenols, sterols, alkaloids, flavonoids, tannins, proteins, essential fatty acids, enzymes, vitamins, and carotenoids. Many of these bioactive compounds are composed of significant biological properties such as antioxidant, ultra-violet protective, anti-inflammatory, anti-wrinkling, skin-whitening, anti-microbial, anti-thrombotic, and anti-cancer activities. With the discovery of novel bioactive compounds from marine algae, it as a collective performs the role of a conveyer belt of ingredients for industrial applications, namely the pharmaceutical industry, cosmeceutical industry, nutraceutical industry, energy industry, and functional food industry, etc. New generations have now focused their attention towards natural, safe, and highly available bioproducts as it downplays the risks linked to consumption while providing benefits. Considering the rising demand for natural bioproducts globally, marine algae turn into biological factories with vast economic potential. Therefore, this mini-review mainly focuses on the impact of algal research and its potential for industrial applications.