UF Researchers Dive Into the Science of How Seaweed Might Prevent Colon Cancer and Inflammation of the Digestive Tract

Consuming a seaweed found near the Florida Keys may offer health benefits in preventing colon cancer and inflammatory diseases of the digest tract, according to researchers Michelle Bousquet, Ph.D., Hendrik Luesch, Ph.D., and Fatma Al-Awadhi, Ph.D. in the University of Florida College of Pharmacy.

A comprehensive multiyear study identified seaweed compounds responsible for anti-inflammatory activities and their mechanism of action. Researchers tested the natural products in multiple cell-based and animal models and found activation of a signaling pathway responsible for fighting off inflammation and resulting in digestive diseases. In addition, the seaweed components modified gut microbiota composition, increasing the abundance of bacteria found in probiotics that are beneficial for colon health.

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