The effects of marine carbohydrates and glycosylated compounds on human health

• Published in: International Journal of Molecular Sciences Vol. 16; no. 3; pp. 6018 - 6056
• Main Authors: Kang, Hee-Kyoung, Seo, Chang Ho, Park, Yoonkyung
• Format: Journal Article Book Review
• Language: English
• Published: Switzerland MDPI AG 16.03.2015; MDPI
• Subjects: anti-inflammatory; antibacterial; anticoagulant; Anticoagulants - chemistry; Anticoagulants - pharmacology; antioxidant; Antioxidants - chemistry; Antioxidants - pharmacology; Antiprotozoal Agents - chemistry; Antiprotozoal Agents - pharmacology; antiviral; Antiviral Agents - chemistry; Antiviral Agents - pharmacology; Aquatic Organisms - metabolism; Blood Coagulation - drug effects; carbohydrate; Carbohydrates; Carbohydrates - chemistry; Carbohydrates - pharmacology; glycoside; Glycosylation; Humans; Hypoglycemic Agents - chemistry; Hypoglycemic Agents - therapeutic use; immune system; Leishmania - drug effects; Marine biology; marine organisms; Public health; Review; Viruses - drug effects
• ISSN: 1422-0067; 1661-6596; 1422-0067
• DOI: 10.3390/ijms16036018

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.