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Microalgal polysaccharides: Structural diversity, bioactive potential, and challenges for sustainable commercialization
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Z. Aminikhoei *   , M. Mirbakhsh , S. Pormozafar , B. Khallagi |
| Off- shore Fisheries Research Center, Iranian Fisheries Science Research Institute, Agricultural Research Education and Extension Organization, Chabahar, Iran |
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Abstract: (8 Views) |
Microalgae are recognized as a promising source of bioactive compounds with potential applications in food, pharmaceutical, cosmetic, and biotechnology industries. Among these compounds, polysaccharides have attracted increasing attention due to their unique structural characteristics and diverse biological activities. This review examines the chemical composition, structural diversity, biological functions, and commercial production prospects of microalgal polysaccharides. Unlike most terrestrial plant polysaccharides, microalgal polysaccharides are often characterized by complex heteropolymeric structures, high sulfate content, and diverse monosaccharide compositions, which contribute to their distinctive physicochemical and biological properties. Numerous studies have demonstrated their antibacterial, antiviral, antioxidant, immunomodulatory, and anticancer activities, highlighting their potential for high-value industrial applications. Despite these promising attributes, large-scale commercialization remains constrained by challenges related to cultivation efficiency, extraction and purification technologies, production costs, and product standardization. Advances in strain selection, bioprocess optimization, and downstream processing are expected to improve production efficiency and economic feasibility. Overall, microalgal polysaccharides represent a valuable and sustainable resource with considerable potential for future commercial development.
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| Keywords: Microalgae, Polysaccharides, Sulfated Polysaccharides, Chemical Structure, Biological Activities, Commercial Production, Bioprocessing |
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Full-Text [PDF 306 kb]
(13 Downloads)
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Type of Study: Research |
Subject:
General
Received: 2026/06/13 | Accepted: 2026/10/2 | Published: 2026/06/13
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