Fucoidans are long chain polysaccharides found naturally in brown seaweeds. More than 4,000 scientific papers attesting to the unique bioactive properties of fucoidans have now been published. As a result of this extensive research, fucoidans are now utilised in a wide variety of applications including dietary supplements, medical devices, veterinary products and in topical formulations for skincare. Marinova’s global R&D program continues to explore innovative market opportunities for fucoidans. Two recently published studies provide insight into potential future applications for these unique marine extracts.
1. Prostate health
Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), or prostate enlargement, is a significant health issue for men across the globe. The condition becomes increasingly prevalent with age, and while it is typically non-life threatening, it can cause bothersome symptoms including difficulty passing urine and an increase in the frequency of urination. BPH may also lead to bladder, urinary tract or kidney problems.
A recently published study, utilising high purity fucoidan manufactured by Marinova, has demonstrated encouraging results. The 28-day study found that Undaria pinnatifida fucoidan significantly reduced testosterone-induced BPH symptoms in rats. Significant reductions in prostate weight, prostate index, testosterone, dihydrotestosterone and prostate specific antigen levels were observed in rats supplemented with fucoidan, compared to the BPH control group. Additionally, the anti-inflammatory and pro-apoptotic potential of fucoidan observed in this study may help to explain how fucoidan acts to ameliorate the effects of BPH. > Read the full study
2. Exercise and gut microbiome
Increasing global research suggests fucoidans may have a future role to play in exercise nutrition. A recent 10-week study, utilising Marinova’s high purity Undaria pinnatifida fucoidan, showed that fucoidan supplementation enhanced exercise performance, improved muscle function and positively modulated gut microbiome in mice.
Fucoidan supplementation was shown to significantly increase the daily running distance and muscle mass, by 25.5% and 10.4% respectively, in mice fed a standard chow diet. Improvements in gut microbiome health were also observed, including significant increases in beneficial bacteria Bacteroides/Prevotella, Akkermansia muciniphila and Lactobacillus, along with a notable reduction in the Firmicutes to Bacteroidetes ratio. The findings provide further insight into the potential benefits of fucoidans in exercise performance and suggest a promising future for these compounds in the field of active nutrition. > Read the full study
Marinova Pty Ltd will be exhibiting at Vitafoods Europe at booth CC.B48.
For further details visit www.marinova.com.au