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Advisor(s)
Abstract(s)
This review presents the chemical composition, bioactive properties, and diverse applica-
tions of Chlorella vulgaris, a green microalga widely recognized for its exceptional nutritional value
and therapeutic potential. The study emphasizes the presence of key nutrients, including high-quality
proteins, essential vitamins, minerals, and an array of bioactive compounds such as carotenoids,
chlorophyll, and polysaccharides. These compounds have been shown to exhibit a wide spectrum of
biological activities, including potent antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory, antiviral,
anticancer, antidiabetic, lipid-lowering, and detoxifying effects. The review explores the multifaceted
applications of C. vulgaris in various sectors, including its growing role as a functional food ingredi-
ent, a nutraceutical supplement in animal feed, and a promising therapeutic agent for combatting
chronic diseases. This paper also highlights its potential for enhancing immune responses, mitigating
oxidative stress, promoting detoxification of heavy metals, and improving overall health outcomes.
However, current limitations in clinical evidence surrounding its medicinal efficacy present chal-
lenges that need to be addressed. Furthermore, significant obstacles remain in scaling up C. vulgaris
production, including optimizing cultivation techniques and improving bioavailability. Addition-
ally, this review identifies crucial research gaps, particularly in optimizing cultivation techniques,
improving bioavailability, and validating the clinical efficacy of C. vulgaris. By addressing these
challenges, C. vulgaris holds significant promise in contributing to global health, sustainable nutrition,
and environmental conservation efforts by serving as a source of protein and bioactive components
for a growing population while simultaneously having a lower environmental impact and requiring
fewer resources in production compared to traditional ingredients like soybean meal.
Description
Keywords
C. vulgaris bioactive compounds antioxidant activity functional food animal feed therapeutic applications
Pedagogical Context
Citation
Mendes, A.R.; Spínola, M.P.; Lordelo, M.; Prates, J.A.M. Chemical Compounds, Bioactivities, and Applications of Chlorella vulgaris in Food, Feed and Medicine. Appl. Sci. 2024, 14, 10810. https://doi.org/10.3390/app142310810
Publisher
MDPI