Algae

Algae represent a diverse, polyphyletic group of photosynthetic, eukaryotic organisms that range from microscopic unicellular species to large multicellular forms like kelp (Guiry, 2012). From a clinical and pharmacological perspective, 'Algae' is not a specific therapeutic target, such as a receptor or enzyme, but rather a general biological category. While most algae are ecologically beneficial, certain species are medically significant as pathogens; for example, the genus Prototheca can cause protothecosis, an opportunistic infection in humans and animals (Kambampati et al., 2018). Additionally, some algae produce secondary metabolites during harmful algal blooms (HABs) that act as potent toxins, such as saxitoxins which block voltage-gated sodium channels or microcystins which inhibit protein phosphatases (Wang, 2008). In the biotechnology industry, algae are more commonly viewed as platforms for the production of biofuels, nutraceuticals, and pharmaceutical precursors than as targets for drug development.

Other names

PhytoplanktonSeaweedMicroalgaeMacroalgaeEukaryotic algae

Not applicable; Algae is a broad group of organisms rather than a specific molecular target.