Impacto das algas nas doenças cerebrais: estudos exploratórios

The marine environment is known for its enormous diversity of living organisms, including algae. Seaweed has been identified as an under-exploited plant resource, although it has long been recognised as a valuable source of bioactive compounds. In recent years, the biological activities, nutritional value and potential health benefits of algae have been intensively investigated. Currently, several lines of research are exploring the biological activities and neuroprotective effects of these natural resources, including antioxidant, anti- inflammatory, cholinesterase inhibiting and neuronal death inhibiting activities, which are fundamental in the prevention of brain diseases. Algae have long been recognised for their beneficial properties for health, but only recently has their neuroprotective potential been extensively investigated. The development of new pharmaceutical products, nutraceuticals and functional foods is growing, as is the need to increase research in the field of neuroscience to better understand the mechanisms of action of algae on the brain and associated pathologies. This review focuses on presenting the impact of certain types of algae on the prevention of brain diseases, increasing health literacy and raising awareness for the development of research in this area.