Over the last fifteen years, with the observation that seaweed eating populations show lower rates of problematic cells, Viruses and inflammatory conditions, there has been an increase in investigational and clinical trial activity focused on fucoidans.

Cardiovascular Health

Acting in a similar capacity to heparin, some fucoidans inhibit both cholesterol synthesis and act to promote healthy blood pressure. Fucoidans can also act as an antioxidant and detoxification agent, chelating unwanted excess metals from the blood serum. The selectin-antagonist properties of many fucoidans indicate potential to prevent reperfusion injury post-ischaemia. Fucoidan can also act as clot lysing agents and can help clear lipoproteins from the bloodstream, preventing vascular blockage.

Antiviral Activity

Ingestion of fucoidan-rich macroalgae has demonstrated a potent antiviral effect against coated viruses. These fucoidans prevent viral entry into the host cell, and prevent the spread of the disease within the body.

Oncology

Fucoidan fractions of various origins and molecular weights show an effect in animal models, whether taken orally or injected. It is possible that fucoidans also increase the mobilization of stem cells, thereby aiding the repopulation of the immune system following chemotherapy.

Inflammatory Disease

Highly sulphated fucoidans act as inhibitors of TNF-alpha, much like the new generation of rheumatoid arthritis, inflammatory bowel disease and psoriasis drugs. They also inhibit the enzyme hyaluronidase, believed to play a role in the development of inflammatory diseases. An ability to prevent the adhesion of Helicobacter pylori in the gut means some types of fucoidan can also act to prevent stomach ulcers.

Scar Formation

The modulation of human growth factor activity caused by fucoidans allows for
the inhibition of scar formation following surgery. Topical administration of fucoidan can potentially promote burn healing, and could also have a role in cosmetic surgery.