ABSTRACT
Bioactive compounds play a significant role in disease prevention and maintenance of normal physiological functions. Due to increased demand of functional foods and nutraceuticals, numerous food sources are being exploited for novel bioactive compounds fit for their subsequent use in food, cosmetic and pharmaceutical products. Among various sources, marine algal bioactives are gaining popularity because of their potential health benefits. Such health effects are delivered by phlorotannins, natural pigments, diterpenes and sulfated polysaccharides present in different algal species. Numerous studies have identified antioxidant, anti-obesity, anti-cancer, anti-tumor, anti-viral, anti-angiogenic and neuroprotective activities of algal bioactive agents. In this respect, the health claims associated with marine algal bioactives are comprehensively discussed and possible mechanisms involved in delivering such effects are summarized in this chapter.
