What if one of the secrets to fighting breast cancer lay in the ocean? Seaweed, often seen as just part of the marine landscape, is proving to be a true ally in the fight against this disease. A review article recently published in the journal Chemistry & Biodiversity highlights that bioactive compounds extracted from seaweed may play a key role in fighting breast cancer. This article highlights several studies that also demonstrate that these natural compounds have promising anti-cancer properties that can complement conventional treatments.

Among the most promising components of algae are polysaccharides (molecules that store energy and perform structural functions in cells), polyphenols (natural antioxidants with protective properties), and carotenoids (pigments with antioxidant action). These compounds play a crucial role in cell protection and can help stop the uncontrolled growth of cancer cells.

Fucoidans (a polysaccharide), for example, found mainly in brown algae, have already shown a remarkable ability to induce apoptosis—the natural process of cell death—in malignant cells. In addition, studies indicate that they can inhibit the formation of new blood vessels, reducing the supply of essential nutrients to tumors and thus hindering their growth.

But algae don’t stop there. Laminarins, another type of polysaccharide, have antiproliferative effects, capable of stopping the uncontrolled multiplication of cancer cells, helping to limit the spread of cancer. Florotannins (phenolic compounds), on the other hand, exhibit powerful antioxidant action, protecting healthy cells from damage caused by oxidative stress. Among carotenoids, fucoxanthin, for example, has been shown to inhibit the proliferation and migration of cancer cells. Combined, these molecules represent a promising natural approach to complement conventional treatments.

Although challenges remain in the clinical application of these compounds, such as their bioavailability and the definition of effective doses, advances in research are encouraging. Enthusiasm is growing as it becomes clear that the ocean may be an untapped reservoir of adjuvant solutions for breast cancer therapies.

The full review article can be read in Chemistry & Biodiversity.