Marine Natural Products as Nutraceuticals: A Review of Their Sources and Health Benefits

A diverse array of organisms establishes their habitat in marine ecosystems, many of which can produce unique bioactive compounds, known as marine natural products (MNPs), with significant therapeutic potential, are increasingly being recognized for their valuable pharmacological properties. Numerous clinical trials are underway that use marine natural products and are already maturing into market-ready products. Thus, the field of marine nutraceuticals holds immense potential for human health. This review details the major bioactive components in marine organisms, including fish, algae, molluscs, crustaceans, sponges, and echinoderms, as well as the active substances they produce, such as polyunsaturated fatty acids, peptides, polysaccharides, and marine pigments. Numerous studies have shown that these substances to possess significant antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-diabetic, neuroprotective, and cardioprotective activities. These effects occur through several different molecular mechanisms, such as suppression of inflammatory mediators like NF-κB while strengthening substances (such as Nrf2 transcription factors) responsible for cellular defenses. Apart from the encouraging benefits, there are many obstacles to be overcome in developing marine nutraceuticals: the production yield of the compounds is not stable, poor bioavailability, and standards are still missing from legislation for marine bio-products. Changes in marine biotechnology and product development must be made so that these compounds can be applied to health more efficiently. This review aims to consolidate the knowledge of marine bio-resources and point out gaps in future research for marine nutraceuticals.