Hepatoprotective effects of Ulva fasciata against cisplatin-induced liver injury in rats: GC-MS-based identification, In Silico ADME profiling, and molecular docking analysis of bioactive compounds.

Microbial community assembly in marine integrated multi-trophic aquaculture (IMTA) systems remains poorly understood, particularly across interconnected extractive compartments spanning spatial and temporal scales. Two-step biofilters that incorporate seaweeds and multi-species biofilms (periphyton) are widely used to remove excess nitrogen and phosphorus from aquaculture effluents while simultaneously generating protein-rich, edible biomass. Variations in nutrient composition along these biofilters suggest that microbial diversity and functionality may be differentially shaped within the system. To address this knowledge gap, in this study, using the 16S rRNA gene amplicon sequencing technique, we examined the assembly and potential functions of aquatic microbial communities along the treatment of marine effluent by Ulva fasciata and periphyton, where species selection may occur spatially through microbial colonization of the different plant substrates or through changes in water-nutrient content. At the same time, we assessed temporal dynamics by the weekly changes over 5 weeks. Community structure and functionality demonstrated that environmental heterogeneity primarily determined dissimilarity among microbial communities across the biofilter's compartments. Microbial beta diversity of periphyton, Ulva thallus, and rearing water was distinct over time. This confirmed the important role of environmental selection despite hydraulic homogeneity caused by the high dispersal rate of running water within the interconnected biofilters. The periphyton microbial community harbored the highest alpha diversity, followed by the water microbiome and Ulva-associated microbiota. In terms of functional potential, nitrogen and sulfur metabolism were generally higher in periphyton than in the water and Ulva assemblies. While nitrate reduction by periphyton is associated with the high prevalence of genes involved in denitrification, the Ulva-microbes interaction benefits the alga through bacterial dissimilatory nitrate reduction to ammonia. Overall, these findings provide novel insights into the spatial and temporal dynamics of microbiomes in integrated culture systems, contribute to optimal IMTA designs and microbial management in holistic mariculture.

Abstract The removal of low-concentration pollutants from wastewater remains a major challenge in advanced treatment processes, where conventional wastewater treatment methods often underperform due to limited mass transfer and weak interaction kinetics. In this study, a novel bio-based membrane system was developed using polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) and Ulva fasciata bioethanol byproduct extract (UFBE), a waste-derived material rich in antimicrobial ulvan. Dual-format membranes, comprising nanofibers and films, were fabricated through green electrospinning and solvent-casting techniques using water-based systems. Box-Behnken response surface methodology was employed to optimize the electrospinning parameters for minimized fiber diameter and morphological uniformity. Characterization analyses (SEM, SEM-EDX, FTIR, TGA, XRD, BET, tensile strength, swelling, and solubility tests) confirmed the successful integration of UFBE and improvements in thermal and mechanical properties. The membranes were applied to aged oilfield wastewater representing a low-pollutant treatment challenge. Despite reduced contaminant levels, the membranes achieved nearly 100% oil removal, an 82% reduction in turbidity, and substantial declines in hardness and scaling potential. These findings underscore the membrane’s sensitivity, selectivity, and suitability for tertiary treatment applications. This work presents a foundational approach to developing multifunctional, sustainable membranes from algal waste, offering new opportunities for bio-derived materials in environmental remediation.

Bioactive macromolecules from Ulva lactuca and Ulva fasciata: Structural insights and mechanistic roles in colon cancer therapy

This study examines the performance and emission behavior of a diesel engine powered by blends of marine microalga biodiesel and conventional diesel fuel, further enhanced with graphene oxide (GO) nanoparticles. Biodiesel derived from Ulva fasciata was thoroughly characterized using FTIR, UV-Vis, GC-MS, and photoluminescence analysis, while GO was synthesized and confirmed through XRD and zeta potential studies (-44.6 mV), indicating excellent nanofluid stability. Among the tested B5 to B25 fuel blends, B25 showed the best baseline performance. Incorporating 55ppm GO into the B25 blend decreased BSFC by 7%and increased brake power by 8%, with a peak torque of 13.5 Nm at full load. The GO-enhanced blend also decreased UHC, CO, NOx, PM, and smoke emissions, while a moderate rise in CO2 suggested a thorough and efficient combustion process. These improvements can be credited to the superior thermal conductivity, extensive surface area, and oxygen-rich functional groups of GO, all of which facilitate more complete fuel oxidation and enhance heat transfer during combustion. The results demonstrate that GO microalgal biodiesel offers a suitable and efficient alternative to fossil diesel, aligning with global efforts toward low-carbon energy transition and cleaner transportation.

Seaweeds, or marine macroalgae, are primitive, non-flowering photosynthetic organisms that inhabit intertidal and subtidal zones and constitute an important renewable marine resource. This study explored the diversity of seaweeds and the physicochemical characteristics of coastal waters in Kovalam (Hawaii) and Ernakulam (Nayarambalam and Kuzhupilli), Kerala. Understanding coastal water quality in relation to seaweed assemblages is crucial for biodiversity conservation and sustainable coastal resource management. Eight seaweed samples were collected from rocky intertidal substrata across these locations, with only two species documented from the Ernakulam region. Among the collected specimens, Ulva fasciata Delile, Caulerpa peltata J.V. Lamouroux, and Chaetomorpha antennina Kützing were identified as green algae, while Gracilaria corticata J. Agardh, Hypnea bullata Kundu & Patel, and Asparagopsis taxiformis Delile belonged to the red algae. The remaining two species—Scytosiphon lomentaria J. Agardh and Sargassum wightii (Greville) J. Agardh—were brown algae reported exclusively from Kovalam. Ulva fasciata Delile and Chaetomorpha antennina Kützing were the two green algal species recorded from the Ernakulam coastal waters. Evaluation of seven major physicochemical parameters (pH, total dissolved solids, salinity, temperature, dissolved oxygen, nitrate, and phosphate) revealed slightly alkaline, warm, and saline waters with elevated dissolved solids, conditions favorable for sustaining diverse macroalgal communities.

Multifunctional Bioactivity of Zinc Selenide Nanoparticles Coated with Seaweed Polysaccharide from Ulva fasciata

Arsenate biotransformation in six marine macroalgae species under dual salinity regimes: Comparative insights across phyla.

Highly efficient production of l-rhamnose from catalytic hydrolysis of marine polysaccharide ulvan over carbon embedded sulfonated resins.

Ocean acidification impairs growth and induces oxidative stress in the macroalgae Ulva fasciata and Petalonia fascia.

Seaweeds are marine macroalgae that are rich in various secondary metabolites known to exhibit different biological activities such as anti-diabetic, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, etc. This study aimed to determine the bioactive metabolites, as well as the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities of two red algae (Ceramium virgatum and Gracilaria corticata) and two green algae (Enteromorpha flexuosa and Ulva fasciata), which are prevalent in the coastal region of the Bay of Bengal. The total phenolic and flavonoid contents were determined using the Folin-Ciocalteu and aluminium chloride methods. Antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities were evaluated using the ABTS assay and protein denaturation, LPS-induced RAW264.7 cells, respectively. The highest total phenolic (5.73±0.06mg GAE/g dry extract) and flavonoid (5.25±01.6mg QE/g dry extract) contents were found in C. virgatum, and it also shows good antioxidant activity with an IC50 value of 258.66µg/mL. The protein denaturation assay and NO production inhibition assay of C. virgatum showed the lowest IC50 value (65.39µg/mL) and lower NO level. Analysis of secondary metabolites using HR-LCMS reveals the presence of 12 phytoconstituents in C. virgatum extract. From these results, it is evident that C. virgatum can contribute to the development of antioxidant and anti-inflammatory agents.

Marine macroalgae (Ulva fasciata) and endophytic fungi enhance biotic stress-tolerance in Helianthus annuus L. by up-regulating the expression of stressor proteins

Exploring the nutritional benefits of a ready-to-eat vegan sandwich filler developed with tender jackfruit, seaweed, banana blossom and soy flour: Formulation and quality analysis

The current study describes the application of the marine probiotic Enterococcus durans E23 for fermenting and biologically extracting Ulva fasciata. The prepared extract (RE) exhibited promising antibacterial activity against Pseudomonas fluorescens, Enterococcus faecalis, Klebsiella pneumoniae, E. coli, Bacillus sp., and Staphylococcus aureus (inhibition zone diameters 10-21 mm). Total phenolics, flavonoids, and GC-MS analysis revealed that RE contains phenolics, flavonoids, vitamins, and 35 phytochemical compounds. The efficacy of UE23 (RE + E. durans 23) as a feed supplement for Litopenaeus vannamei was assessed. The experiment was conducted for 12weeks in fiberglass tanks (200 L). A total of 300 post-larval (PL) shrimp, weighing ~ 0.20 ± 0.01g, were employed. Four experimental groups were allocated to 12 tanks (25 PL/tank). The control group (C) was fed on a commercial diet, while T1, T2, and T3 included adding UE23 at 1, 2, and 3 g kg-1 concentrations, respectively. Applying UE23 significantly (p < 0.05) enhanced L. vannamei growth performance and immunity gene expression. T2 recorded the highest weight gain and specific growth rate, while the highest survival rate and lowest feed conversion ratio were reported by T3. UE23 successfully elevated the number of lactic acid bacteria in the shrimp gut from 20 in the C group to > 300 in the T3 treatment, and none of the tested pathogens were detected. Further, the expression of the transglutaminase gene was upregulated 14.5-fold compared to the control in the T3 treatment. In conclusion, U. fasciata biological extraction by E. durans E23 is a promising approach in obtaining an innovative shrimp feed additive with substantial bioactivities and nutritive potential.

Abstract Macrophomina phaseolina is a soil- and seed borne pathogen causing root rot disease. Disease management using marine macroalgae (Ulva fasciata) as well as nanotechnology practices can be a method for disease control. In vitro tests of M. phaseolina control using algal extracts, MgNPs and CH-Mg-alg NC (chitosan- magnesium- algae nanocomposite) as well as CH –alg NC (chitosan- algae nanocomposite) decreases fungal radial growth. We found that these extracts cause distortion in mycelium structure. HPLC analysis of the algal extract showed the presence of eight major phenolic compounds that may have an antifungal activity. The CH-Mg-alg NC treatment had the largest inhibitory effect decreasing radial growth by 88.9% compared to the control. The hydrodynamic diameter of the CH-Mg-alg NC particles includes two picks at 7.36 nm and 898.9 nm with a polydispersity index (PDI) of 0.34 and a zeta potential of -11.0 mV. In pot experiments, disease severity decreased after the CH-Mg-alg NC seed soaking treatment with a severity reduction of 56.43 to 23.81 and 53.53 to 25.02% in the first and second season, respectively. The treatments also improved vegetative growth parameters compared to the positive untreated control. To track the distribution of the nanocomposite within the pods and soil, data obtained from Inductively Coupled Plasma (ICP) spectrometry indicated that the magnesium (Mg) ratio not increases beyond the natural/safe levels in both the pods and soil. These findings support the safety of the application of CH-Mg-alg NC in disease management strategies.

The biochemical constituents of common seaweed (16 different species) from the coast of Alexandria, Egypt, were investigated, and the fatty acid and total amino acid contents of the three most dominant dietary species were assessed. Ulva fasciata has the highest moisture content (78.0% ± 9.9% fresh weight) in El Mex Bay, whereas in Gleem, Jania rubens has the greatest ash content (28.2% ± 2.9% dry weight), and Pterocladia capillacea has a high carbohydrate content (52.5% ± 5.2% DW). A high protein content was observed in U. linza (Abu-Qir). In general, the lipid content of most seaweeds is low, and the caloric content of the selected species is also low at ≈5 kcal/100 g, making it a viable alternative biosource of healthy food to help combat obesity. U. linza and Cladophora glomerata are distinguished by their high photosynthetic pigments. Padina boryana has the highest fucoxanthin content. The highest level (5.26% ± 0.74%) of PUFA was found only in P. capillacea, indicating that it has the best nutritional indices. P. boryana and P. capillacea presented high essential amino acid (EAA)/NEAA ratios (0.65 ± 0.35 and 0.63 ± 0.69, respectively). Lysine is the limiting amino acid in P. boryana, with a low amino acid score (AAS) (62.20% ± 0.44%). Padina boryana and P. capillacea had EAAI values of 154% ± 0.95% and 122% ± 0.86%, respectively. Seaweed examined and their biochemical compositions, fatty acids, and total amino acids have the potential to be used in biofuel, medicine, cosmetics, and nutrition.

Aim: To examine the effect of gold nanoparticles on normal Vero cell lines as well as on three different cancer cell lines (HepG2, HeLa, and MCF7) to evaluate their safety and toxicity. The study aims to assess the biocompatibility and potential cytotoxicity of gold nanoparticles, considering the ongoing debate about their effects on human health. Study Design: Experimental in vitro study. Place and Duration of Study: This study was conducted at P.G. and Research Department of Biotechnology, Marudupandiyar college, Thanjavur Methodology: In this study, Ulva fasciata seaweed was collected from coastal regions of Kerala and Tamil Nadu, cleaned, shade-dried, and powdered for methanolic extraction using Soxhlet apparatus. The resulting extract was used for the phytosynthesis of gold nanoparticles (Au NPs) by reacting with 1 mMH AuCl₄ under dark, static conditions at room temperature. Phytochemical screening identified various bioactive compounds in the extract. Optimization of nanoparticle synthesis was carried out by varying pH, temperature, extract and metal salt concentrations, and incubation time, with stability assessed over 12 months. The Au NPs were characterized using techniques such as UV–vis spectroscopy, HRTEM, EDX, XRD, DLS, zeta potential, AFM, and ICP-OES. Cytotoxic effects of the Au NPs were evaluated via MTT assay against normal (Vero) and cancer (HepG2, HeLa, MCF7) cell lines to determine IC50 values, and apoptosis in HepG2 cells was confirmed using PI and AO/EB staining under fluorescence microscopy. Results: Phytosynthesized gold nanoparticles (Au NPs) using Ulva fasciata extract exhibited a characteristic UV-Vis absorbance peak at 545 nm, confirming their formation. Phytochemical analysis of the extract revealed the presence of various bioactive compounds such as alkaloids, phenolics, flavonoids, and terpenoids, which likely mediated the nanoparticle synthesis. Optimal synthesis conditions were determined as pH 7, 1.0 mM HAuCl₄, 1.0 mL extract, 37°C, and 24-hour incubation. Characterization revealed predominantly spherical, crystalline Au NPs with a size range of 25–35 nm by HR-TEM, a maximum hydrodynamic diameter of 50 nm (DLS), and a zeta potential of -16.0 mV, indicating good stability. XRD confirmed face-centered cubic structures, and EDX and SAED affirmed elemental purity and crystallinity. AFM showed smooth, spherical particles (~60–90 nm), and ICP-OES quantified Au NP concentration at 258.0 mg/L. In vitro cytotoxicity tests demonstrated higher biocompatibility of Au NPs (IC₅₀: 75µg/mL) compared to gold chloride (IC₅₀: 10µg/mL) in Vero cells. Au NPs showed dose-dependent anticancer activity, with IC₅₀ values of 30µg/mL (HepG2) and 50µg/mL (HeLa and MCF7). Fluorescent staining of HepG2 cells revealed apoptotic features, including chromatin condensation and nuclear fragmentation, confirming the pro-apoptotic effects of the Au NPs. Conclusion: Gold nanoparticles show promise as a non-toxic drug delivery vehicle in normal cells while exhibiting cytotoxic effects in cancer cell lines. These findings suggest potential for selective therapeutic applications, though further studies are needed to confirm long-term safety and efficacy.

Ulva fasciata is a green macroalga in the Ulvaceae family that has attracted attention from researchers across different sectors owing to its pile of biochemical compounds and its versatility. In recent years, Ulva fasciata has emerged as a subject of interest due to its extensive biological properties and potential applications in the field of medicine. Known for its rich nutritional profile and diverse bioactive compounds, it has demonstrated a range of beneficial effects, including antimicrobial, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory activities. The following review encapsulates an account of the general features of Ulva fasciata, its location, chemistry and the versatility of its uses. The paper is structured into two main parts: the first part provides general information about seaweeds and, more specifically, about Ulva fasciata, such as its classification, global distribution, seasonal distribution, nutritional value, especially its amino acid contents, and its bioactive compounds. The second section focuses on the myriad of uses associated with the Ulva fasciata, with special focus on its medical and pharmaceutical uses, cosmetic uses, as well as its uses in industries. Keywords: Ulva fasciata, Phytochemicals, Antimicrobial, Antioxidant, Functional food, Sustainable resource.

Ulvan, a sulfated polysaccharide with distinctive structural properties and promising biological applications, was extracted from various abundant marine macroalgae (Ulva fasciata, Caulerpa racemosa, and Halimeda tuna) which were collected from Port Said on the Mediterranean Sea and Hurghada on the Red Sea, Egypt. The ultrasonic assisted extraction (UAE) method proved to be the most efficient method for ulvan extraction compared to acid extraction (AE) and hot water extraction (HWE) methods. U. fasciata exhibited the highest ulvan yield, as well as the highest molecular weight (120x105 g/mol). Ash content was relatively low for all species, but there was a notable difference in moisture content and pH. Principal component analysis (PCA) revealed that ulvan showed a positive correlation with pH and ash content. Ulvan obtained from U. fasciata possessed superior physical properties, including higher specific and reduced viscosity (0.57 and 4.43 dL/g, respectively). FTIR and TGA analysis confirmed the presence of characteristic functional groups associated with ulvan. Moreover, the extracted ulvan demonstrated significant antimicrobial activity against several pathogenic microorganisms, highlighting its potential for various applications in the pharmaceutical and food industries.

This study focused on evaluating the effectiveness of zinc selenide nanoparticles coated with green seaweed (Ulva fasciata) (ZnSe-Uf) against Leishmania major (L. major) in light of increasing drug resistance in the treatment of cutaneous leishmaniasis and the growing necessity for new therapeutic options. Key characteristics of ZnSe-Uf, including shape, size, functional groups, zeta potential, and polydispersity index, were analyzed in detail. The study investigated the effects of different concentrations of ZnSe-Uf compared to meglumine antimoniate (MA; used as the control), on both the promastigote and amastigote forms of L. major, calculating the selectivity index (SI) for each. Analysis revealed that the dominant functional group in ZnSe-Uf was C-H stretching, attributed to polysaccharides, lipids, and proteins. The size of ZnSe-Uf ranged from 228.2-242.8 nm (P = 0.37), with a polydispersity index of 0.31-0.33 (P = 0.85), and a zeta potential ranging from -35.6 mV to -57.9 mV (P = 0.07) over a period of 90 days. The lethal concentration 50 (LC50) for ZnSe-Uf was 7.61 μg/mL, while for MA it was 17.37 μg/mL on promastigote (P = 0.03). On amastigote, the LC50 was 24.3 μg/mL for ZnSe-Uf and 12.3 μg/mL for MA (P = 0.04). The SI was 27.55 for ZnSe-Uf and 41.26 for MA (P = 0.02). The lower LC50 for MA on amastigote indicated its better effectiveness on L. major compared to ZnSe-Uf, suggesting that ZnSe-Uf may have a lower ability to concentrate in macrophages compared to MA. However, ZnSe-Uf still showed anti-leishmanial activity and was non-toxic to macrophages (SI > 10), indicating the need for further investigation on animal models.