Identification and characterization of the novel bioactive compounds from microalgae and cyanobacteria for pharmaceutical and nutraceutical applications

Microalgae and cyanobacteria (blue-green algae) are used as food by humans. They have gained a lot of attention in recent years because of their potential applications in biotechnology. Microalgae and cyanobacteria are good sources of many valuable compounds, including important biologically active compounds with antiviral, antibacterial, antifungal, and anticancer activities. Under optimal growth condition and stress factors, algal biomass produce varieties of potential bioactive compounds. In the current review, bioactive compounds production and their remarkable applications such as pharmaceutical and nutraceutical applications along with processes involved in identification and characterization of the novel bioactive compounds are discussed. Comprehensive knowledge about the exploration, extraction, screening, and trading of bioactive products from microalgae and cyanobacteria and their pharmaceutical and other applications will open up new avenues for drug discovery and bioprospecting.

Automated summary

Microalgae and cyanobacteria are being widely studied for their potential applications in biotechnology. They are valuable sources of bioactive compounds with antiviral, antibacterial, antifungal, and anticancer activities. This review discusses the production of bioactive compounds, their applications in pharmaceutical and nutraceutical fields, and the processes involved in identifying and characterizing these compounds. A comprehensive understanding of the exploration, extraction, screening, and trading of bioactive products from microalgae and cyanobacteria will pave the way for drug discovery and bioprospecting.