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Bioactive Compounds Derived from Marine Sources (Peptides, Polysaccharides, and Carotenoids) in the Prevention and Treatment of Atherosclerosis: A Review of Molecular Mechanisms and Preclinical Evidence
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Majid Mazoochi   , Alireza Yavar , Sadegh Zarei * |
| Molecular Medicine Research Center, Research Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Rafsanjan University of Medical Sciences, Rafsanjan, Iran , zarei88ss@gmail.com |
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Abstract: (78 Views) |
Atherosclerosis, as the leading cause of cardiovascular diseases, is a chronic inflammatory process characterized by the accumulation of lipids and an inflammatory response in the vessel wall. Current treatments are associated with limitations, including side effects and incomplete response in some patients. Therefore, identifying novel therapeutic agents with distinct mechanisms of action and favorable safety profiles appears essential.
This systematic review examines the preclinical evidence related to three major classes of marine-derived bioactive compounds (peptides, polysaccharides, and carotenoids) and their potential application in combating atherosclerosis. The primary focus is on analyzing the documented molecular mechanisms of these compounds, which mainly involve modulating inflammatory signaling pathways (such as NF-κB and NLRP3), reducing oxidative stress through activation of the Nrf2 pathway, improving lipid profiles by influencing cholesterol metabolism, and regulating endothelial function and hemostasis.
The present review indicates that despite promising data from animal models and cell cultures, there are significant knowledge gaps, including insufficient pharmacokinetic studies, heterogeneity in compound sources and extraction methods, and a lack of controlled clinical trials. This review emphasizes the need for prospective research to accurately assess the bioavailability, toxicity, and clinical efficacy of these compounds, so that their true potential as complementary or alternative agents in preventive and therapeutic strategies for atherosclerosis can be scientifically determined. |
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| Keywords: Atherosclerosis, Marine Bioactive Compounds, Marine Peptides, Marine Polysaccharides, Marine Carotenoids |
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Full-Text [PDF 566 kb]
(51 Downloads)
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Type of Study: Review |
Subject:
Marine Medicine
Received: 2025/11/13 | Accepted: 2026/01/28 | Published: 2026/04/30
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