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Friday, 29 March 2024
Thursday, 28 May 2020 02:00 pm

Seaweed Extract Offers Hope for Influenza A

Australian scientists have revealed that a natural compound found in seaweed may reduce the effects of severe cases of Influenza A.

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Fucoidan is a highly bioactive compound found naturally in brown seaweed and well known for its diverse therapeutic potential. Amongst other benefits, fucoidan is known for its effects on modulating inflammation and inhibiting certain viruses.

The new research involved studying the effect of fucoidan in mice that had been infected with Influenza A H1N1. The results demonstrated that mice that had consumed the fucoidan experienced a significant reduction in lung 'consolidation' - a common adverse effect of severe viral lung infections in which fluid fills the alveoli of the lungs and interferes with vital gas exchange. Recovery from this condition can be lengthy and may include permanent damage to lung tissue.

The study also showed that oral consumption of fucoidan resulted in a reduction in the clinical signs of Influenza A.

The fucoidan utilised in the study was Maritech(R) Undaria pinnatifida fucoidan manufactured by Australian biotechnology company Marinova Pty Ltd. Maritech(R) seaweed extracts are supplied directly to leading pharmaceutical and nutritional companies for inclusion in a range of human health applications.

Speaking about the results, co-author of the paper and Chief Scientist at Marinova Pty Ltd, Dr Helen Fitton, said, "These results are very exciting. They demonstrate the potential for fucoidan to be utilised as a natural therapy for the management of viral infections where lung damage is occurring."


Neha Pandey

Aware of her elements, Neha writes the best articles across industries including electronics & semiconductors, automotive & transportation and food & beverages. Being from the finance background she has the ability to understand the dynamics of every industry and analyze the news updates to form insightful articles. Neha is an energetic person interested in music, travel, and entertainment. Since past 5 years, she written extensively on sectors like technology, finance and healthcare.


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