The effects of marine carbohydrates and glycosylated compounds on human health

Int J Mol Sci. 2015 Mar 16;16(3):6018-56. doi: 10.3390/ijms16036018.

Abstract

Marine organisms have been recognized as a valuable source of bioactive compounds with industrial and nutraceutical potential. Recently, marine-derived carbohydrates, including polysaccharides and low molecular weight glycosylated oligosaccharides, have attracted much attention because of their numerous health benefits. Moreover, several studies have reported that marine carbohydrates exhibit various biological activities, including antioxidant, anti-infection, anticoagulant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-diabetic effects. The present review discusses the potential industrial applications of bioactive marine carbohydrates for health maintenance and disease prevention. Furthermore, the use of marine carbohydrates in food, cosmetics, agriculture, and environmental protection is discussed.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Anticoagulants / chemistry
  • Anticoagulants / pharmacology
  • Antioxidants / chemistry
  • Antioxidants / pharmacology
  • Antiprotozoal Agents / chemistry
  • Antiprotozoal Agents / pharmacology
  • Antiviral Agents / chemistry
  • Antiviral Agents / pharmacology
  • Aquatic Organisms / metabolism*
  • Blood Coagulation / drug effects
  • Carbohydrates / chemistry*
  • Carbohydrates / pharmacology
  • Humans
  • Hypoglycemic Agents / chemistry
  • Hypoglycemic Agents / therapeutic use
  • Leishmania / drug effects
  • Viruses / drug effects

Substances

  • Anticoagulants
  • Antioxidants
  • Antiprotozoal Agents
  • Antiviral Agents
  • Carbohydrates
  • Hypoglycemic Agents