Polysaccharides from the Sargassum and Brown Algae Genus: Extraction, Purification, and Their Potential Therapeutic Applications

The document discusses the extraction, purification, and potential therapeutic applications of polysaccharides from the Sargassum and brown algae genus. Various extraction methods are used, including supercritical fluid extraction, pressurized liquid extraction, subcritical water extraction, ultrasound-assisted extraction, enzyme-assisted extraction, and microwave-assisted extraction. The polysaccharides, such as alginates, fucoidans, and laminarins, have bioactivities like antiviral, antimicrobial, and antitumoral properties. They also have potential in tissue engineering, wound healing, and as prebiotics. Notably, fucoidan from Sargassum glaucescens promoted hair growth, making it a potential treatment for alopecia. However, challenges exist in the research and marketing of Sargassum-based products, including the absorption of heavy metals by brown algae, the seasonal availability of brown algae, and the lack of efficient drug delivery methods.