ulva lactuca oligosaccharide

Ulva lactuca oligosaccharide (ULO) is a marine-derived carbohydrate obtained through the enzymatic or chemical hydrolysis of ulvan, a sulfated polysaccharide found in the cell walls of the green alga *Ulva lactuca* (sea lettuce). ULO is being investigated for its multi-targeted therapeutic potential, particularly in metabolic and psychiatric disorders. In the context of Type 2 diabetes, ULO acts as an agonist of the Glucagon-like peptide 1 receptor (GLP-1R), which stimulates glucose-dependent insulin secretion and improves glycemic control. Additionally, it has been shown to modulate the gut microbiota, promoting the growth of beneficial bacteria that contribute to metabolic health. Beyond its metabolic effects, ULO and related *Ulva lactuca* extracts are being studied for their neuroprotective and antidepressant properties, with clinical research exploring their efficacy in treating depression. The development of these compounds involves a collaboration between academic institutions, including Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Cairo University, and Istanbul Technical University, alongside CEN Biotech.

Other names

ulvan oligosaccharidessea lettuce oligosaccharidesUlva lactuca extract