A new scientific review has examined the latest developments in fucoidan research. An Australian team known for expertise in the research, development and manufacture of this unique marine ingredient that naturally occurs in brown seaweed have detailed the global progress in fucoidan research in “Therapies from Fucoidan: New developments” published in Marine Drugs in October 2019. 
 
Lead author Dr. Helen Fitton, chief scientist at Marinova, highlighted the application of fucoidan across a range of human health indications. “Since our last review in 2015, studies of fucoidan have progressed in a variety of research areas. Fucoidan compounds are highly bioactive and continue to be developed and utilized for dietary supplements. They are also in demand for gut health, immune modulation and anti-inflammatory applications for both humans and animals. We anticipate these applications are likely to increase in the future due to recent regulatory approvals in the USA and EU.” 
 
Fitton continued, “Therapies for neurological disease, bacterial and viral infections, and oncology appear to be the next commercial opportunities. These recent research developments are outlined in the paper along with exciting progress in clinical trial outcomes.” 
 
The new review summarized the recent use of fucoidan to treat renal disease, the radiolabeling of blood clots, and the increased use of fucoidan in commercially available supplements and topical treatments. 
 
“There is certainly growing interest in fucoidan,” said Fitton. “It is an innovative marine ingredient and ongoing research continues to reveal the extraordinary health benefits that it has to offer. The extent and breadth of the credible science supporting fucoidan continues to expand.” 
 
The full paper titled “Therapies from Fucoidan: New developments,” published in Marine Drugs, can be accessed here.