(P26-028-25) Investigating the Effect of Seaweed Bioactive Compounds on Gut Microbiota Composition and Dysbiosis: A Systematic Review

Objectives: To evaluate the effect of seaweed bioactive compounds on gut microbiota composition, diversity, and gut health.

To investigate the effects of specific seaweed components, such as fucoidan and polysaccharides, on the balance of beneficial and harmful gut bacteria.

To explore the potential therapeutic applications of seaweed bioactive compounds for maintaining gut health and addressing gut-related disorders.

Methods: Studies on the effect of seaweed bioactives on the microbiome are limited. This research systematically reviewed literature from Google Scholar and Web of Science (2014-2024) to assess the effect of seaweed’s bioactive compounds on the gut microbiome. The search yielded seven relevant studies. The studies investigated the effect of fucoidan in Helicobacter pylori eradication, gut microbiota, and macrophages, assessed the effect of Okinawa mozuku on bowel movement, evaluated the effect of seaweed polysaccharide on fecal weight and microbial imbalance, and the stability of seaweed phlorotannin in the GIT.

Results: Key findings indicate that seaweed components can increase beneficial bacteria such as Faecalibacterium prausnitzii and promote microbial diversity while reducing pathogenic taxa. Fucoidan was beneficial in mitigating the adverse effects of antibiotic-induced dysbiosis during Helicobacter pylori eradication therapy, while Okinawa mozuku improved bowel movement and stool consistency. Fucus vesiculosus phlorotannin is linked to antioxidant activity.

Conclusions: These findings highlight seaweed bioactives as potential therapeutic agents for enhancing and sustaining beneficial bacteria in the microbiome, supporting the application of seaweed compounds in dietary and clinical interventions for gut health.

Funding Sources: None