A New Review of Ulva-Derived Bioactive Compounds, Especially Ulvan, in Improving Metabolic Health and Strengthening the Immune System of Humans and Animals

چکیده

Ulva species are valuable green seaweeds rich in bioactive compounds, particularly the sulfated polysaccharide ulvan, which represents 9–36% of the dry biomass and serves as a major structural and functional component [1–5]. Research has shown that ulvan contains sulfated rhamnose, uronic acids, and xylose, and that its biological activity depends on molecular weight, sulfate content, and extraction conditions [1–6]. Studies consistently report antioxidant, anticancer, immunomodulatory, and prebiotic-like effects of Ulva extracts and ulvan, supporting their relevance to metabolic regulation and immune health in humans and animals [1–5,7–20]. In addition, ulvan has demonstrated promising value in aquaculture, where it improves immune responses, antioxidant defense, and growth performance [14–18]. Overall, Ulva represents a natural marine resource with strong potential for functional food, nutraceutical, and feed applications [1–20].