Exploring the role of microalgae in alleviating metabolic syndrome: Insights from murine models and human trials on obesity, diabetes, and cardiovascular disorders

Metabolic syndrome (MS) is a group of pathologies that often occur together, including obesity, type 2 diabetes, and cardiovascular disease, which are among the leading causes of global morbidity and mortality. These conditions are associated with oxidative stress, chronic inflammation, and disruptions in lipid and glucose metabolism. Current management strategies, including lifestyle modifications and drug-based therapies, often focus on specific aspects of MS, but have limitations in efficacy and long-term effectiveness. Additionally, since there is not a single treatment for MS, patients often need several different medications to manage its various components, increasing the risk of side effects and drug interactions. Recently, microalgae, unicellular photoautotrophic organisms, have emerged as a promising source of bioactive compounds, including polyunsaturated fatty acids, carotenoids, proteins, peptides and polysaccharides. These compounds show antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antihypertensive, antidiabetic and lipid-regulating properties, making microalgae a potential therapeutic tool for addressing MS. This review brings together findings from a variety of research based on murine models and human trials, highlighting the therapeutic potential of microalgae to alleviate MS-related pathologies. It also explores the biological pathways involved and discusses the challenges in developing microalgae-based interventions for MS management. From a global perspective, much of the information contained in this review suggests that the use of microalgae in the diet may be beneficial for various conditions associated with MS. However, many more studies are needed to confirm these promising researches. • Metabolic syndrome (MS) is a group of pathologies that cause morbidity and mortality. • Microalgae have emerged as a promising source of bioactive compounds to alleviate MS. • PUFA, carotenoids, proteins, peptides and carbohydrates are therapeutic to address MS. • Different murine models have demonstrated the potential of microalgae against MS. • Human trials have shown the beneficial effect of Arthrospira genus consumption on MS.