Bioactive proteins and peptides from microalgae

Microalgae have been part of the human diet for centuries and are being increasingly consumed for their reported health benefits. Although first commercially exploited as a source of high quality protein, recent interest has focused on microalgae as a source of novel proteins and peptides possessing antioxidant, anti-cancer, cardioprotective and other bioactivities. Microalgal proteins and peptides have potential for application as functional food ingredients, nutraceuticals and pharmaceutical agents. With the rapid increase in incidences of diseases such as cancer and hypertension, an opportunity exists to identify natural bioactive proteins and peptides targeted for the prevention and management of these conditions. This review assesses current research on the potential cardioprotective, antioxidant, anti-cancer, immunomodulatory and other bioactive properties of microalgal proteins, peptides and protein hydrolysates.