Marine algae as a potential source of bioactive compounds to prevent and cure the novel coronavirus and other human viral diseases

The world at large is facing a new threat with the emergence of the Coronavirus Disease ۲۰۱۹ (COVID-۱۹) pandemic. The medical, sociological and economical implications caused by this newly discovered virus have been and will continue to be a great impediment to our lives. Biotechnological and biomedical research has the task to find solutions to counteract viral entry and pathogenesis. A novel approach can come from marine algal chemodiversity, recognized as a relevant source for developing a future natural “antiviral pharmacy”. Activities of antioxidants against viruses can be exploited to cope with human viral infection, from single individual infections to protection of populations. There is a potentially rich and fruitful reservoir of such compounds thanks to the plethora of bioactive molecules and families present in marine microorganisms. Algal compounds have been tested against viruses and algal anti-inflammatory compounds have the potential to treat the severe symptoms of COVID-۱۹ and other viral diseases. The possible utilization of algae in producing valueadded products such as vaccines, serological test kits and supplements that would either mitigate or hinder the continued health risks caused by the virus is prominent. Many of the characteristics in algae can provide insights on the development of algae to fight against SARS-CoV-۲ or other viruses and contribute in manufacturing various green and high-value products.

کلیدواژه ها:

Algae ، -carotene ، Coronavirus ، Covid-۱۹ ، Seaweed ، Sulfated polysaccharide ، Viral diseases