Fucoxanthin-rich microalgae extract found to boost cognition and memory

19 Mar 2024 --- A mouse-model study has uncovered the potential health benefits of a microalgae extract, Phaeodactylum tricornutum (PT), in raising cognitive function and fighting age-related mental decline.

“The microalgae PT is distinguished by its rich nutrient profile, characterized by well-documented neuroprotective activities, including fucoxanthin, a major carotenoid and polyunsaturated omega-3 fatty acids,” detail the researchers.

“Seventy-two male mice were randomly assigned to the blank control group, negative control group and four similar microalgae extract of PT groups (branded as BrainPhyt) with different human-equivalent doses to evaluate potential dose-response effects.”

Microalgae extract corrected impairments
The experiment, published in MDPI Journal, investigated the protective effects of a standardized extract of the microalgae containing 2% fucoxanthin on markers of cognitive performance, oxidative stress and inflammation.

From day one to day 51, mice in the blank control group were injected with a 0.9% normal saline solution, while mice in all other groups were subcutaneously injected with D-galactose at a dose of 150 mg/kg once per day, five days per week.

Microalgae extract from the brand BrainPhyt, produced by Microphyt, was used in the experiment (Image credit: Microphyt).Results showed that higher doses of the microalgae extract “significantly and fully” inhibited impairments in spatial cognitive function and swim latency. The extract also improved step-through latency, which measures the time it takes for an animal to move from one compartment to another in a testing apparatus.

Moreover, biochemical analysis revealed significant reductions in brain and plasma levels of lipid peroxidation, TNF-α and IL-6 markers, indicating a regulation of oxidative stress and inflammation pathways.

“These data underscore the positive effects of a standardized extract of PT containing 2% fucoxanthin on cognitive function parameters such as spatial working memory, long-term memory and short-term memory through the regulation of oxidative stress and inflammation pathways,” the researchers explain.

Netting brain health benefits
The researchers point out that marine environments harbor an extensive biological diversity of microalgae, representing a “vast reservoir” of largely unexplored bioactive molecules, including carotenoids, pigments, fatty acids, peptides and sterols, renowned for their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.

“The cultivation of microalgae in photobioreactors, employing eco-friendly production processes, offers a sustainable alternative to address societal challenges, particularly in the preservation of biodiversity and landscapes,” they highlight.

Notably, the microalgae PT stands out for its rich nutrient profile, featuring “well-documented neuroprotective activities,” including the major carotenoid fucoxanthin, polyunsaturated omega-3 fatty acids and phycoprostans.

“Primarily, the preventive role of fucoxanthin in cognitive impairment is suggested by its robust singlet oxygen-quenching properties, mitigating oxidative stress and lipid peroxidation,” note the study authors.

“Furthermore, this key carotenoid exhibits the ability to traverse the blood-brain barrier, modulating various signaling pathways implicated in brain oxidative stress and inflammation associated with aging.”

In previous microalgae research, Qatar scientists examined the health benefits of spirulina (Arthrospira platensis) supplementation for its effects on cardiometabolic disease.

By Benjamin Ferrer

To contact our editorial team please email us at editorial@cnsmedia.com