Читать книгу Biopolymers for Biomedical and Biotechnological Applications - Группа авторов - Страница 45

Free radicals such as ROS can cause oxidative stress in living organisms, and, in humans, oxidative stress is associated with the occurrence of cancer, diabetes, neurodegenerative diseases, and cardiovascular problems [198,199]. The central nervous system (CNS) is particularly vulnerable to oxidative stress due to its high oxygen requirements and lipid content. Oxidative stress in the CNS is related to neuronal death and the progression of several neurodegenerative diseases such as multiple sclerosis, Alzheimer's diseases, and Parkinson's diseases [200]. Antioxidants can enhance the activity of antioxidant enzymes, scavenge free radicals, and inhibit lipid oxidation [41]. Crude EPS from Rhodella reticulata had antioxidant activity, and a ROS scavenging capacity was much higher than the standard antioxidant α‐tocopherol [47]. The molecular weight of the polysaccharide might influence the antioxidant properties of these molecules. For example, only the low molecular weight EPS from P. cruentum inhibited oxidative damage in mouse cells and tissues [41]. Furthermore, the sulfate and uronic acid content, structure, and conformation of the polysaccharide might impact their antioxidant properties [191]. Due to their valuable antioxidant properties, microalgal polysaccharides have a great potential to be used as neuroprotective agents; however, further investigation in the CNS is needed.