Researchers develop algae-based natural products with potential against SARS-CoV-2

A team of researchers from the Faculty of Sciences and Technology of the University of Coimbra (FCTUC), in collaboration with the Faculty of Pharmacy (FFUC), is developing several macroalgae-based natural products with potential against the SARS-CoV-2 virus.

The AlgaMar4antivirus project started during the COVID-19 pandemic to address the urgent need for effective antiviral solutions. This research focuses on developing new natural products derived from macroalgae, harnessing their bioactive compounds with antiviral properties.

"The AlgaMar4antivirus project is focused on the fight against SARS-CoV-2 and the development of a natural compound that could be used in both prevention and treatment of this virus. We have already identified macroalgae from the Portuguese coast: Green, red and brown, which have shown promising results. Aquaculture has always been a priority to ensure the sustainability of marine resources and to obtain sufficient biomass for the extraction of bioactive compounds," explains Ana Marta Gonçalves, researcher at the Centre for Functional Ecology (CFE) of the Department of Life Sciences and project leader.

The antiviral efficacy of several of the extracted compounds has been demonstrated in tests carried out in collaboration with FFUC.

"These findings represent an important step forward in developing natural pharmaceutical solutions that could potentially be used against other viruses in addition to SARS-CoV-2," says Gonçalves.

"The team will conduct further laboratory testing to validate the efficacy and safety of the compounds developed and finalise the pharmaceutical product for commercialisation. In the future, the researchers hope to expand the investigation to assess the potential of these compounds against other viruses."