Utilization of Algae and Their Anti‐Proliferative and Anti‐Inflammatory Activities

Abstract

Algae are mostly aquatic, photosynthetic, and nucleus-bearing organisms without the true roots, stems, leaves, and specialized multicellular reproductive systems found in plants. Many contain chemical constituents used in cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, the food industry, manure, and different food supplements. Their metabolites have been utilized to treat a variety of cancers due to their cytotoxic, antiproliferative, and apoptotic properties. They have been shown to possess anti-inflammatory phytochemicals that can be employed as treatments or in the development of structural analogs with strong anti-inflammatory properties. Algae also have additional uses, such as the development of algae-based nano-composites for heavy metal removal and the formation of biopolymers for diverse materials. This chapter introduces algae, its properties, and the possible health benefits of algae biocomposites.