Brown algae phytochemistry and bioactivity: Bridging In vitro effects and in silico mechanistic insights

Marine macroalgae are an important source of bioactive compounds with potential applications in food, nutraceutical and pharmaceutical industries. Among them, brown algae are particularly rich in polysaccharides, phlorotannins, lipids, pigments, sterols and mineral elements which contribute to a wide range of biological activities. This review summarizes the major phytochemical classes reported in brown algae and discusses their documented antioxidant, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, antiviral and other health-related properties. It also highlights the value of molecular docking and other in silico approaches for linking chemical composition with possible mechanisms of action. Overall, brown algae represent a promising sustainable source for the development of functional foods and bioactive products, although further work is needed to standardize extraction, characterization of bioactive compounds and validate biological activities in vivo .