Assessment of Nutritional and Bioactive Constituents from some Microalgae (Dunaliella salina, Scenedesmus obliquus and Spirulina platensis

Abstract

Microalgae, making photosynthesis, produce half of the atmospheric oxygen. Over 15,000 novel compounds like carotenoids, fatty acids, enzymes, polymers, peptides, toxins and sterols , originating from algal biomass, have been chemically determined. Microalgae show promise for remediation of waste waters and producing value adding biproducts for large markets such as biofuels, biofertilizers, and biopolymers. 1- Dunaliella salina, belonging to chlorophyta, is a type of green microalgae especially found in sea salt fields. Known for its antioxidant activity because of its ability to create large amount of carotenoids especially β-carotene. Dunaliella salina contained many active constituents having antiviral, anticancer and antibacterial activities. 2- Scenedesmus obliquus, belonging to chlorophyta, is a type of green microalgae especially found in fresh water. Scenedesmus obliquus contained many active constituents like lipids and carotenoids having antibacterial and anticancer activities. 3- Spirulina platensis, belonging to Cyanobacteria , is a blue-green algae occuring naturally in tropical , subtropical lakes and brackish water. Arthrospira is very rich in proteins used in malnourished patients and contained many active constituents having antibacterial, anticancer and anti-inflammatory effects.