Application & Prospects  of Microalgae in Veterinary Biopharmaceutical and Nutraceutical industries in india

Application & Prospects  of Microalgae in Veterinary Biopharmaceutical and Nutraceutical industries in india

Nutraceuticals are nutrients from food or food products that not only supplement the diet but also facilitate the prevention or treatment of a disease and/or disorder. Algae are a diverse group of autotrophic organisms that have the ability to grow rapidly, efficiently use light energy, fix atmospheric CO2 , and produce more biomass per acre than vascular plants . Algae have been used as a food source and for treatment of various ailments for over two thousand years . Algae can form numerous compounds that are currently present in nutraceuticals and have the potential to become more intensively exploited. Different types of algae, specifically microalgae, that could become more prevalent in food supplements and nutraceuticals are Nostoc, Botryococcus, Anabaena, Chlamydomonas, Scenedesmus, Synechococcus, Parietochloris, and Porphyridium etc. due to the capability of producing necessary vitamins including: A (Retinol), B1 (Thiamine), B2 (Riboflavin), B3 (Niacin), B6 (Pyridoxine), B9 (Folic acid), B12 (Cobalamin), C (L-Ascorbic acid), D, E (Tocopherol), and H (Biotin). Also, these organisms concentrate essential elements including: Potassium, Zinc, Iodine, Selenium, Iron, Manganese, Copper, Phosphorus, Sodium, Nitrogen, Magnesium, Cobalt, Molybdenum, Sulfur and Calcium. Algae are also high producers of essential amino acids and Omega 6 (Arachidonic acid) and Omega 3 (docosahexaenoic acid, eicosapentaenoic acid) fatty acids . Due to their abundant production of beneficial compounds and nutritive contents, the market for increased algae production for nutraceuticals is lucrative and imminent.

Microalgae are single-celled, microscopic, photosynthetic species occurring in both marine and freshwater environment. Different type of compounds produced by microalgae such as lipids, carbohydrates and protein along with different value compounds such as pigments, omega-3 fatty acids and triglycerides that could be exploited for their nutritional value. Most of the microalgae are photosynthetic microorganisms; unlike land plants, it does not contain cell organelles. Using water, solar energy and CO_2, the microalgae can be cultivated photosynthetically in artificial tanks, raceway ponds, marginal ponds and shallow lagoons. Although, over 300,000 to 800,000 species of microalgae found in the environment, out of which only 30,000 are documented . The orderly systematic study of algae is called phycology . The microalgae produce secondary metabolites, with potential biological functions and novel structure .

Additionally, it can produce various useful bio-products including antioxidants, polysaccharides, natural dyes, eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), bioactive and functional pigments, docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), astaxanthin and β-carotene . Due to increasing consumer awareness on significant health benefits, the desire for nutraceuticals food products has been significantly increased recently . Microalgae can be called as the factory for several biomolecules including beta-1,3-glucan, Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids (PUFAs), nutraceutical and pharmaceutical compounds, phycobiliprotein, chlorophyll, beta-carotene, lutein and astaxanthin

Microalgae are a large diverse group of microorganisms comprising photoautotrophic protists and prokaryotic cyanobacteria—also called as blue-green algae. These microalgae form the source of the food chain for more than 70% of the world’s biomass.Microalgae are single-celled, microscopic photosynthetic organisms, found in freshwater and marine environment. They produce compounds such as protein, carbohydrates, and lipids. Mostly, microalgae are photosynthetic microorganisms; it does not contain cell organelles unlike land plants. They use the carbon from air for energy production. Microalgae have been recognized as rich sources of proteins, omega-3 and -6 fatty acids, carbohydrates, pigments, vitamins, minerals and a variety of bioactive peptide molecules with marketable nutraceutical and potential pharmaceutical properties. Notable biological activities of microalgal-derived compounds include antioxidant, antibacterial, antifungal, antiviral, antiparasitic, angiotensin I-converting enzyme inhibitory (ACE-inhibitory), anti-proliferative, anti-elastase, anti-trypsin, anti-chymotrypsin, myofibroblast differentiation inducing and hepatic fibrosis inhibitory activities.

Conventional source of nutrients is no longer sufficient and sustainable to maintain balanced nutrition for each individual in rapidly growing global population. Malnutrition, poor dietary habits and sedentary lifestyle are mainly responsible for the occurrence of complex non communicable diseases such as chronic respiratory diseases, hypertension, Parkinson, cancer, Alzheimer, metabolic syndrome, cardiovascular diseases, type 2 diabetes that affect the world’s poor and also some rich people (Etchegoyen et al., 2018; Ullah at al., 2019). This reality has driven our research towards the exploration of sustainable natural source of nutrient to meet the global nutritional gap and to provide health benefits, especially to the marginalised poor. In this context nutraceuticals and functional food have been emphasized in an attempt, to reduce the risk of contracting these diseases and also for health improvements (Sahidi F, 2012). The term ‘nutraceutical’, as described by the Innovation in Medicine Foundation, is any food or components of food that assures health support. Similarly, functional food has certain physiological benefits (Cencic et al., 2010). Global nutraceuticals’ market size was $184,092 million in 2015 and is likely to attain $ 302,306 million at the end of 2022 with a CAGR of 7.04% from 2016 to 2022. The nutraceuticals have multipurpose application as these are being used in several industries such as food, pharmaceuticals, and cosmetics. The noteworthy fact is, in the global nutraceutical market scenario, algal production market accounts for $3.40 billion in 2017, which is anticipated to reach $6.90 billion by 2026 at a CAGR of 6.7% (Anonymous, 2019b). Microalgae have drawn global attention as a source of food supplements and nutraceuticals. Indeed, algae are the autotrophs found in freshwater, marine and even in many adverse environments. Concomitantly, microalgae exhibited variable morphological, physiological and metabolic diversity. Through photosynthesis they utilize the atmospheric carbon to enhance their biomass. Conventionally, a few microalgae have been used as food in certain regions of Asia and exploited for the commercial production of hydrocolloids (Wijesinghe at al., 2012). Therefore, these are the prime source of certain essential nutrients for metabolism and promotion of health. Moreover, these are proved to be an excellent source for the extraction of a verity of commercially important compounds such as colour pigments, protein, peptides, polysaccharides, unsaturated fatty acids, antioxidants, and few more such substances. Indeed, Chlorella sp. and Spirulina sp are especially good for supplementing the needs of people suffering from malnutrition in Africa, India, and the broader developing world by providing nutraceuticals at affordable price (Raja et al., 2018; Nasseri et al., 2011). The social impact of providing balanced nutrition for every individual and to meet the global nutritional gap of supply and demand is immensely important. In addition to that, sportspeople, pregnant women, and the elderly people can also lead a healthy life by taking algal nutraceuticals as immunity booster. The micro-algal resources are sustainable and have great potential for the production of dietary supplements. Some of novel strains have been studied for their biomass production rate, types of bioactive compounds, and their application in several commercial industries. The biochemical composition, genetic variability, and improvement of technology must be taken into account for large scale production of such biomass and bioactive compounds that are needed for food fortification. In this context, for efficient use of algal biomass and process sustainability, the integrated concept of using bio-reactors, bio-refinery, and biotechnology is advisable.

Microalgae can be cultivated photosynthetically using CO₂, solar energy, and water. It can be cultivated in shallow lagoons, marginal ponds, raceway ponds, or artificial tanks. The use of plastic tubes/reactors in pond system can achieve up to seven times the production efficiency compared to open culture system .

There are more than 300,000 species of microalgae, out of which around 30,000 are documented. They live in complex natural habitats and can adapt rapidly in extreme conditions (in variation of extreme weather conditions). This ability makes them capable to produce secondary metabolites, with novel structure and biologically active functions.

Microalgae produce some useful bio-products including β-carotene, astaxanthin, docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), bioactive and functional pigments, natural dyes, polysaccharides, antioxidants, and algal extracts. The first commercial cultivation of Chlorella was started in 1960 in Japan for nutraceuticals. Microalgae grow fast and produce large biomass with high protein content and consist the source of “single cell protein”

Microalgae represent a group of polyphyletic organisms, mainly photosynthetic, single-celled to multi-cellular thallus structures that are minute in size. The most primitive member of microalgal forms are found in several habitats and differ from each other on the basis of morphology, cytology, biochemical composition, and pigments variations (Dominguez, 2013; Anis, 2017). Moreover, several of primitive strains have been reported as pharmaceutical and nutraceutical supplements that have been cultured at large scale. Indeed, genetically improved algal strains have been adopted for commercial scale food, animal feed, cosmetic, medicine and a few more products in developing countries.

 

TYPES OF ALGAE

1. Microalgae

Microalgae are minute, unicellular, prokaryotic algae with a diameter of 1–50 m, sometimes known as blue-green algae or cyanobacteria. Some of them have the ability to grow heterotrophically and photographically. Their metabolism is powered by carbon and radiation energy, very much like the oxygenic photosynthesis of terrestrial plants . They can be seen alone, in groups, or in clusters. Microalgae include phosphorus, calcium, iron, vitamins A, B, C, and E, as well as folic acid, biotin, beta-carotene, pantothenic acid, and vitamin B12 . Some microalgae species may adapt to phosphorus depletion; in some of these species, non-phosphorus membrane lipids can be employed in place of phospholipids .

1. Macroalgae

Eukaryotic, macroscopic, multicellular macro-algae are commonly referred to as seaweeds. The marine water or sea water that has the lightest is where macroalgal species live . Being benthic plants, their capacity to survive depends on how firmly they are anchored to the seafloor or a layer of solid rock below them. The thallus, lamina, kelp, holdfast, and frond sorus of macro-algal species are simple in structure, in contrast to terrestrial plants, which have complicated tissue and organ organization . Macroalgae may be categorized into three primary categories according on their level of pigmentation .

1. Chlorophyceae (green algae)
2. Phaeophyceae (brown algae)
3. Rhodophyceae (red algae)

PIGMENT PRODUCED BY ALGAE

1. Red algae

The red protein pigment phycoerythrin is produced by red algae together with chlorophyll. This pigment gives red algae its color because of its capacity to absorb blue light while reflecting red light . A covalent link is created between the protein and phycobilin’s with chromatophores. The presence of the aforementioned pigment in these algae species allows them to perform photosynthesis . Red algae are sometimes utilized in cosmetics, such as Irish moss and Gracillaria species. Porphyria species, etc.

1. Green algae

Chlorophyll, a pigment used in photosynthetic processes and capable of storing light energy, is produced by it. Similar to this pigment is hemoglobin, the red pigment present in human red blood cells. It keeps the algal species from drying out by moisturizing it and supplying oxygen to its exposed surface. It also has anti-inflammatory qualities . There are several types of green algae that are utilized in cosmetics, including Chlorella vulgaris, Ulva lactuca, and others. Beta-carotene, which may be produced from Dunaliella salina, is used in dietary supplements and colourants as a nutraceutical since it is a precursor to vitamin A .

1. Brown algae

A brown algal pigment called fucoxanthin is included in the chloroplast. It also has anti-inflammatory properties and inhibits tyrosinase while promoting the production of collagen, a structural protein that tends to scatter with ageing and aids in reducing or controlling skin pigmentation. Additionally, it slows down the skin’s ageing process. The pigment also hydrates the skin and maintains the cells functioning properly . Laminaria digilata, Postelsiapa maeformis, a few species of brown algae used in cosmetics, Isochrysis spp., and other species are examples.

ALGAE IN PHARMACEUTICALS

In recent year, algae play a main role in the pharmaceutical industry. The pharmaceutical businesses in India, where the pace of growth is growing every year, currently account for 70% to 80% of the market. There are many algae types which are very feasible for the mankind that enriches in beneficial factors. For example, of algal types cyanobacteria which is also known as blue green algae that are been mostly used in antibiotics and also used for the pharmacologically active compounds. Antimicrobials, antivirals, therapeutic proteins, antifungals, and other significant products generated from algae play an increasingly important role in the pharmaceutical business . Antioxidant, anticancer, and antiviral capabilities are the three main traits that algae possess . The polyphenols, vitamins, and phycobiliproteins found in algae are considered to have the most potent water-soluble antioxidant capabilities. The suppression of cancer growth that results in the regression of premalignant lesions is largely attributed to antioxidants . According to the study on algae, the process of scavenging free radicals and the active oxygen that aids in cancer prevention are two ways that algae contribute to the prevention of oxidative damages. The key factor of the antioxidants is to fight out various diseases that includes chronic disorder, inflammation etc. The polyphenols act as one of major antioxidant that are mostly present in marine algae, in which is also known as phlorotannin’s. Anticancer activity acts in most of the marine algae which involves with a wide range of properties. The main use of the anticancer activity acts as a good antibiotic property in which it inhibits many dangerous diseases. Algae is utilised in the treatment of oral cancer because it has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant characteristics, including carotenes. Algae floral chemicals are also employed as cancer treatments. Researchers and the pharmaceutical corporations are actively researching this area of anticancer . The cyanobacterium S. platensis has strong antioxidant levels, which contribute to the anticancer effectiveness in aqueous extracts from algae, which also exhibit anticancer action . The earliest evidence of antiviral capabilities came from brown algae, which has a broad spectrum of action that entirely blocks the virus. The significant finding paved the path for antiviral chemotherapy . Carrageen, an algal polysaccharide generated from red algae, is used to combat certain viruses, including the influenza virus, DENV, HSV-1, HSV-2, HPV, and HRV. Brown algae-derived alginate is utilised in the treatment of HIV, IAV, and HBV.

The elements in algae provide a more sophisticated action that targets cancer treatments and is more beneficial due to their chloroplasts and photosynthetic organelles. The genetic properties of small algae were discovered through this application and extensive study, and they aid in the destruction of hazardous cancer cells, paving the way for tumour therapies. This activity was crucial in figuring out the role of algae in the pharmaceutical industry. Additionally, algae are quite good at folding proteins into intricate three-dimensional structures.

There are different types of algae in the medicinal aspects in which it differs at the medicinal properties and also form a unique action from others. The few forms of algae and their medicinal cures are been entitled below in Table 01.

Types of algae	Medicinal cures
Enteromorpha	Used to treat haemorrhoid parasitic disease, goitre, coughing and the bronchitis and also has a capacity to reduce fever and ease pain
Acetabularia	Used to treat urinary disease and also takes place in edema.
Sargassum	Used for treating cervical lymphadenitis, diminishes inflammation, induces urination.
Laminaria	Used for treating the thyroid problems and other forms of urinary diseases that are been more vigorously infected.

 

According to the study, microalgae are crucial in the creation of anti-cancer medications. One of these components, cryptophycin, was extracted from blue-green algae and has proven to be very effective in the creation of anti-cancer medications. Major factors that have been seen in the microalgae that create alkaloidal neurotoxins such saxitoxin and polyketide, which act in having anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer characteristics . Other kinds of macroalgae include the alkaloids that are the precursor of anti-cancer medications.

1. ALGAE IN COSMETIC INDUSTRY

Several secondary metabolites generated from algae have been associated to skin benefits . As a consequence of a global trend toward goods that are viewed as healthful, environmentally sustainable, and ecologically sourced, the cosmetics industry has financed research and development of new products that contain components or extracts from natural sources. Algae are naturally exposed to oxidative stress, and as a result, they develop a number of effective defence mechanisms against reactive oxygen species and free radicals. These systems also enable the production of compounds that can protect cosmetics from the damaging effects of UV radiation by acting similarly to the organic and inorganic filters currently available on the market . In actuality, when grown in the presence of UV light, C. vulgaris, Nostoc, and Spirulina platensis produce more carotenoids and chlorophyll . Additionally, due to their antioxidant capabilities, these compounds may help prevent the oxidation of oil in formulations, particularly in emulsions with a lot of oily components . Fucus vesiculas extract lessens the look of dark circles beneath the eyes by promoting the expression of heme oxygenase-l (HO-l), a molecule that prevents heme formation on the skin by eliminating heme catabolites. In topical preparations, the extract’s anti-inflammatory and antioxidant capabilities may diminish fine lines and wrinkles and enhance the look of eye bags.

They could also increase collagen synthesis, which might lessen the look of eye bags. Additionally, using sunscreen and cosmetics might delay or even stop the ageing process of the skin . Some secondary metabolites of specific microalgae can prevent blemishes, cure seborrhea, heal injured skin, delay the healing process, and maintain moisture in the skin . Red microalgae extracts are also found in skin care, sun protection, hair care, emollient, revitalising, or regenerating care products, anti-aging lotions, and anti-irritant peelers . Algae are frequently utilised as thickeners, water-binders, and antioxidants in cosmetics.

ALGAE IN FOOD INDUSTRY

In developed nations, obesity, heart disease, diabetes, and other health issues are brought on by a diet high in calories and a modern lifestyle. Because of this, there is a demand for foods that can improve health by adding vitamins, minerals, PUFA, and other nutrients to the diet. Additionally, consumers’ preference for natural ingredients over synthetic ones made it very appealing. Algae are a remarkable but understudied natural source of biologically active compounds. Beta-1,3-glucan, which is an active immunostimulant, a scavenger of free radicals, and a limiter of blood lipids, appears to be the most important substance in Chlorella.

The role of cyanobacteria as Antibacterial, anti-viral, anti-tumor and food additives have been well established and most promising aspect of microbial biotechnology is successful micro discovery. Role of antioxidants found in algae studies on the hypo cholesterol emic effect that is attributed various components such as lipoprotein lipase activity, chlorophyll content and phycocyanin and increased the levels of linoleic and arachidonic acids by 29% and 24%, respectively . Biomass from microalgae was primarily utilized in the health food industry. However, this is due to the fact that using traditional foodstuffs’ functional qualities and natural ingredients is one way to create new products that are both appealing and healthy. Around the world, there are numerous combinations of microalgae or mixtures with other foods. Algae farming holds a significant market share in the food industry. Due to their abundance of health-promoting compounds (such as carotenoids, astaxanthin, omega-3, and docosahexaenoic acid), eyelash ingredients were typically utilized as dietary supplements in powder, capsules, and tablets.  The use of these components (or derived components) in food composition is a recent trend. The number of listed beverages containing microalgae or macroalgae has significantly increased in the past five years, as has the quantity of food consumed throughout the year. 13,090 new food products containing algae or components derived from it were introduced worldwide between 2015 and 2019, of which 5720 were introduced in Europe and 436 in Spain. Algae were incorporated in a variety of ways based on the ingredient that was used (whole dried biomass or a purified component) and the purpose that they served in the formulation (a dye agent or a functional component). Due to its adaptability, there are numerous dining options. Producers and consumers alike may be somewhat perplexed when deciding between eyelash-enhanced and unenhanced products. It can be affected by a variety of consumer choices, such as nutrition labels and the mention of eye strain designation .

FUTURE PROSPECTS OF ALGAE IN VARIOUS INDUSTRIES

Biomass of microalgae has a number of useful bioactive components. When compared to the sources of biofuels of the first and second generations, microalgae species are reported to have a high rate of photosynthetic conversion of sunlight. Four methods can be used to directly convert biomass from microalgae into biofuel. Trans esterification, thermochemical conversion, biochemical conversion, and microbial fuel cell are all examples of these . The type of project specification and the availability of raw biomass are two examples of factors that influence the choice of a suitable process.

The raw material from microalgae biofuels is biologically processed during the biochemical process. This conversion includes photobiological hydrogen generation, anaerobic digestion, and fermentation . The fermentation of microalgae into alcohol yields bioethanol. Using yeast, the microalgae fraction that contains cellulose, starch, and other organic components will be transformed into alcohols. Biogas could also be produced by anaerobic digestion of microalgal biomass.

When compared to the production of biodiesel from microalgae lipids, biogas produced from microalgae is regarded as a biogas with a high energy content and yield. The biogas produced through anaerobic digestion has a composition of 50 to 70 percent CH4, 20 to 30 percent CO2, 0.1 to 0.5 percent H2S, and traces of water, N2, NH3, and SO2.A promising raw material for biological processing is microalgae biomass, which has the capacity to produce components of highly valuable bioactive substances . It focuses on using a bio-refinery method to extract various products from microalgae. In addition to the production of biodiesel, extracted lipids can be utilized as health supplements in the form of PUFA; Proteins and carbohydrates can be used in diets and the fermentation industry, but the pharmaceutical and cosmetic industries heavily rely on specialized microalgae-derived products like vitamins and pigments. To obtain components with a high production speed, simple operation, higher yield, and lower costs, various technologies are being investigated . Proteins, vitamins, pigments, fatty acids, lipids, and phenolic compounds are some of the lash species that are commercially exploited-carotene, lutein, canthaxanthin, astaxanthin, and fucoxanthin are well-known to be produced by the algae Haematococcus pluvialis, Dunaliella salina, Chlorella sps, Scenedesmus sps, Spirulina platensis, Botryococcus braunii, and diatoms, respectively. Algae pigment composition, on the other hand, varies from species to species and from environment to environment [55]. Stressful conditions like nutrient deficiency have been observed to increase the pigment accumulation of most algal species. There are approximately 30,000 species of microalgae, which are photosynthetic microorganisms. Based on their morphological characteristics, groups of algae are categorized as Cyanophyta (such as blue-green algae), Phaeophyta (such as brown algae), Rhodophyta (such as red algae), and Chlorophyta (such as green algae). Carotenoids, on the other hand, help to classify algae into ten main categories .

Despite the fact that synthetic pigments are against the law in many nations due to their harmful effects on human health, they are still utilized for a variety of purposes in numerous other nations. Consumer preference for natural carotenoids over synthetic ones is driving an increase in global demand for carotenoids. Carotenoids, chlorophylls, or Phycobilin proteins may be the predominant pigment in a particular alga, depending on the class and species. The harvesting, processing, extraction, and purification of algal cells make mining and processing carotenoid pigments from microalgae extremely challenging . Carotenoids extracted from microalgae biomass must be harvested, analysed, extracted, purified, and then processed in order to be commercialized. The cell walls of some microalgal species are tough and difficult to break. Bowl and pestle, two-phase extraction, grinding, ultrasound, microwave, thawing, freezing, supercritical fluid extraction, and edible oils are all methods that can be used to disrupt the cell wall. The particular kind of algae determines which method of extraction is best . Using a mortar and pestle, carotenoids were extracted from the cells of D. salina, H. pluvialis, S. platensis, B. braunii, and Chlorococcum sps. This approach is suitable for a bench-scale process, not an industrial scale-up process.

 

Microalgae: uses as nutraceuticals and food

Microalgae have a wide range of industrial applications, in food industries, wastewater purification, and pharmaceutical formulations . Microalgae can also be used for high-value food, health food for human, polysaccharides, food and fodder additives, cosmetics, antioxidants, anti-inflammatory objects, dyes and feed for aquaculture, and preparation of biofilms .

The most widely used microalgae include Cyanophyceae (blue-green algae), Chlorophyceae (green algae), Bacillariophyceae (including diatoms), and Chrysophyceae (including golden algae). Table 1 highlights some major microalgal species, products, and their application.

Group/species	Extract	Use/application
Arthrospira (Spirulina) platensis	Phycocyanin, biomass	Health food, cosmetics
Arthrospira (Spirulina)	Protein, vitamin B12	Antioxidant capsule, immune system
Aphanizomenon flos-aquae	Protein, essential fatty acids, β-carotene	Health food, food supplement
Chlorella spp.	Biomass, carbohydrate extract	Animal nutrition, health drinks, food supplement
Dunaliella salina	Carotenoids, β-carotene	Health food, food supplement, feeds
Haematococcus pluvialis	Carotenoids, astaxanthin	Health food, food supplement, feeds
Odontella aurita	Fatty acids, EPA	Pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, anti-inflammatory
Porphyridium cruentum	Polysaccharides	Pharmaceuticals, cosmetics
Isochrysis galbana	Fatty acids	Animal nutrition
Phaeodactylum triconutum	Lipids, fatty acids	Nutrition, fuel production
Lyngbya majuscule	Immune modulators	Pharmaceuticals, nutrition
Schizochytrium sp.	DHA and EPA	Food, beverage, and food supplement
Crypthecodinium cohnii	DHA	Brain development, infant health and nutrition
Nannochloropsis oculata	Biomass	Food for larval and juvenile marine fish

Spirulina

Spirulina is a prokaryotic cyanobacterium that has been commercially produced for over 30 years for uses including fish food, vitamin supplements, food dyes, aquaculture, pharmaceuticals, and nutraceuticals . Spirulina is manufactured by many pharmaceutical companies. This alga is thought of as a super food and is widely cultured, primarily in specifically designed raceway ponds and photobioreactors, to meet the current demand.

Chlorella

Chlorella is a single-cell, spherical shaped (2–10 μm in diameter), and photoautotrophic green microalga with no flagella. It multiplies rapidly requiring only CO₂, water, sunlight, and a small amount of minerals. Chlorella has been grown commercially cultured in photobioreactors and harvested by centrifugation or autoflocculation. After harvesting the biomass is spray-dried, and the cell powder is sold directly. Chlorella contains 11–58% protein, 12–28% carbohydrate, and 2–46% lipids of its dry weight . It also contains various vitamins such as β-carotene (180 mg 100/g), provitamin A (55,500 IU/kg), thiamin B1 (1.5 mg 100/g), vitamin E (<1 mg 100/g), riboflavin B2 (4.8 mg 100/g), niacin B3 (23.8 mg 100/g), vitamin B6 (1.7 mg 100/g), inositol (165.0 mg 100/g), vitamin B12 (125.9 mg 100/g), biotin (191.6 mg 100/g), folic acid (26.9 mg 100/g), and pantothenic acid (1.3 mg 100/g) .

Chlorella is able to decrease blood pressure, lower cholesterol levels, and enhance the immune system . It also has the potential to relieve fibromyalgia, hypertension, or ulcerative colitis . The presence of aortic atheromatous lesions was significantly inhibited, and low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol levels were greatly suppressed upon consumption of Chlorella . Some Chlorella consumers have mentioned a potential correlation between some brands of Chlorella tablets and nausea, vomiting, and other gastrointestinal issues. Chlorella has been labeled as a weak allergen and may be of clinical significance to certain types of people .

 Dunaliella

Dunaliella (D. salina) is a unicellular green alga which contains large amounts of β-carotene, glycerol, and protein that can easily be extracted through its thin cell wall. Dunaliella does not required waters appropriate for agricultural and domestic uses and can be cultured in brackish water, marine water, and highly saline water. Global production of Dunaliella is estimated to be 1200 tons dry weight per year . The dominant companies that produce Dunaliella, mainly for beta-carotene production, are located in Israel, China, the USA, and Australia and include Betatene, Western Biotechnology, AquaCarotene Ltd., Cyanotech Corp., and Nature Beta Technologies .

Dunaliella produces many carotenoid pigments with the dominant being beta-carotene and smaller amounts of lutein and lycopene . Some strains of Dunaliella contain up to 14% of beta-carotene on dry weight basis. The total carotenoid content of Dunaliella varies with the physicochemical parameters and growth conditions. In optimal environmental condition, it can yield around 400 mg beta-carotene/m² of cultivation area . Carotenoids from Dunaliella are potent free radical scavengers that reduce levels of lipid peroxidation and enzyme inactivation, thereby restoring enzyme activity. Research has shown beta-carotene to prevent cancer of various organs like the lungs, cervix, pancreas, colon, rectum, breast, prostate, and ovary by means of antioxidant activity . It has also been shown to promote regression of certain types of cancer. Supplements of Dunaliella have also shown excellent hepatoprotective effects and reduced the occurrence of liver lesions .

Haematococcus pluvialis

Haematococcus pluvialis (H. pluvialis) is unicellular biflagellate freshwater green microalga. This species is known for its ability to accumulate large quantities of strong antioxidant astaxanthin (up to 2–3% on dry weight) under any conditions. The principal commercial astaxanthin-producing microalga is H. pluvialis . Astaxanthin is used as a nutritional supplement and anti-inflammatory and anticancer agent for cardiovascular diseases and is recently recorded to prevent diabetes and neurodegenerative disorders and stimulates immunization. It also has anti-inflammatory properties and is used for various commercial applications in the dosage forms as biomass, capsules, creams, granulated powders, oils, soft gels, syrups, and tablets .

Aphanizomenon

Aphanizomenon is a prokaryotic cyanobacterium commonly found in freshwater systems. There are approximately 500 tons of dried Aphanizomenon produced annually for use in food and pharmaceutical industries . The dominant production source of Aphanizomenon in North America is Upper Klamath Lake and Klamath Falls, Oregon, and currently constitutes a significant part of the health food supplement industry throughout North America. Aphanizomenon contains a significant amount of C-phycocyanin, a light-harvesting pigment. It has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties . Aphanizomenon also exhibits high hypo-cholesterolemic activity, significantly greater than soybean oil, which decreases blood cholesterol and triglyceride levels .It also produces polyunsaturated fatty acids (i.e., omega 3 and omega 6), a deficiency of which has been linked to immunosuppression, arthritis, cardiovascular diseases, mental health issues, and dermatological problems

As the human population continues to increase, the demand for nutritive food and health products increases concomitantly. The sources of nutritive biomass that can meet this demand are pursued rampantly. Their wide diversity, fast growth, and diverse uses make them easily accepted for commercial culture. Microalgae require much fewer resources as compared to other crops. The role of algae in human health and nutrition will continually increase with additional research in the areas of health benefits and culturing. The usage of currently produced algae primarily includes food, food additives, aquaculture, colorants, cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, and nutraceuticals. Very few algal species are being cultivated for human use. There are likely more species of algae that have not been identified than ones that have and those still numbers in the thousands. Therefore, the potential for algal use in the realms of food consumption, health supplements, energy production, and many more is likely to intensify in the years to come.

At a time when algae researchers around the world are striving to develop cheaper nutrient sources for large-scale production of microalgae, a group of research students from the Phytoscience Laboratory, Central University of Kerala (CUK), Kasaragod, has established that wastewater from fish and dairy industries act as suitable nutrient resource to increase algal biomass production and enhance algae-based bioproducts.

Microalgae have attracted considered interest worldwide due to their extensive application potential in the renewable energy, biopharmaceutical and nutraceutical industries.

The research was carried out by a team comprising K. Arunkumar, Professor and Head of the Department of Plant Science, CUK; and research students Vidya D., Nayana K., Sreelakshmi M., Keerthi K.V., and Sneha Mohan.

Ms. Vidya said that in Kerala, the average fish production was 5.4 lakh tonne and dairy production 4.6 billion litres per year.

The lack of a proper system of wastewater treatment results in the discharge of untreated waste into water bodies and land, resulting in severe pollution and contamination issues.

“Utilisation of waste by understanding its actual value reduces the additional cost of pre-treatment and opens the way to global cleanliness. Microalgae have the ability to absorb organic and inorganic nutrients from these waste for their growth and production of high-value products,” Ms. Vidya said.

She said that unlike previous studies by researchers, who had used Scenedesmus and Chlorella microalgae, the CUK team had utilised five commercially important microalgae, including Chlorella Coelastrella, Haematococcus, Dunaliella, and Chroococcus , for the breakdown of nutrients in the dairy and fish waste water.

“The study found that the process not only provides efficient and cost-effective wastewater treatment, but also that algae biomass grown during this water treatment process could be used as a source of protein, carbohydrate, pigment, or biofuel production”.

Change in life style and the insufficiency of balance nutrition for the overwhelming world population make the way for the incidence of a number of chronic diseases. Microalgae are proved to be a renewable and sustainable source of nutrition with health assistances. These could be the future food basket of the world. The microalgal biomass are used as nutraceuticals and the metabolites produced by them are used as food additives to form formulated foods. They exhibited a lot of plasticity in their bioactive compound production that means modification of the algal culture condition or gene editing through genetic engineering can increase the productivity of the chemical compounds or bring about an alteration of the same. Global nutraceutical market is expanding. In this scenario economic feasibility and to make the efficacious use of the algal biomass and its process sustainability is vital. This can be achieved through the adoption of bio-refinery approaches.

Algae have the potential to be a source of bioactive materials for the beauty and medicinal industries. Compounds made from algae have exceptional biological activity and distinctive chemical structures. They are also \”natural and healthful\” since they include harmless ingredients. Diverse marine algae species have a variety of qualities without any toxicity and a strong safety profile. Many different biologically active chemicals with noteworthy effects are created by algae. Algae-derived chemicals are superior than synthetic substances used in the manufacture of different foods and medications. It functions as photoprotection and is utilised in skincare products. Studies on the possible use of algae for improving human health have gained prominence during the last several decades in a variety of fields. Due to their abundance in bioactive molecules, chemicals obtained from microalgae are highly sought after in the pharmaceutical, nutraceutical, cosmetic, animal feed, biological waste treatment, and other multifunctional industries. Microalgae are important sources of natural bioactive substances including carotenoids, PUFAs, proteins, polysaccharides, and glycolipids, which have the potential to cure diseases like cancer, inflammation, Alzheimer\’s, CVDs, malaria, leishmaniasis, TB, HIV, and others. Additionally, it was discovered that several physiologically active marine algal components, such as carotenes, dolostatins, majusculamides, and aflatoxins, had very positive health effects. Therefore, scientists should investigate the possible uses of marine algae\’s bioactive components in cutting-edge medicinal research and biotechnology. Biomaterials made from algae have a bright future in the pharmaceutical and cosmetic industries. However, there is still a lack of conclusive evidence regarding the bioactive substances found in algae, necessitating extensive research to produce major algae compounds that can be used in biomedical applications. Accurate results will become apparent once the product is marketed and put to public testing.

COMILED,EDITED & SHARED BY-DR AJAY, BIOTECHNOLOGY DEPT.IVRI

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