Neurodegenerative Marine Algae Bioactive Compounds: A Viable Cure to Treat Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS): A Review

Introduction: Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), a neurodegenerative disease that causes muscle weakness, paralysis, and death, develops when motor neurons begin to die. There are few proven treatments for ALS, and because the disease is incurable, the exact cause is unknown, making it a devastating condition. According to recent research, marine algae may contain bioactive substances that can be used to treat ALS.
Methods: The comprehensive review of recent publications focused on bioactive compounds extracted from various species of marine algae, including their mechanisms of action against oxidative stress, neuroinflammation, and apoptosis in ALS. The publications were reviewed in scientific journals (ScienceDirect, Springer, Taylor & Francis, and MDPI) and indexed in several databases (Scopus, Web of Science, PubMed, Google Scholar, and so on).
Discussion: Compounds derived from marine algae, including polyunsaturated fatty acids, fucoxanthin, and polysaccharides, exhibit potential neuroprotective effects by modulating neuroinflammation and oxidative stress levels. Fucoxanthin, fucosterol, and alginate demonstrated potential in mitigating oxidative damage and inflammation, which are critical factors in the pathogenesis of ALS.
Conclusion: Bioactive compounds obtained from marine algae demonstrate considerable potential as therapeutic agents for ALS, owing to their capacity to influence multiple pathways linked to oxidative stress and neuroinflammation. Further investigation is required to comprehend their mechanisms and medicinal value, as well as develop novel alternative treatments for ALS.