# Posidonia oceanica (L.) Delile in Focus: In Vitro and In Vivo Evidence for Biomedical Potential

## TL;DR

This paper explores the biomedical potential of Posidonia oceanica, a Mediterranean seagrass, highlighting its bioactive compounds and their effects on health and disease.

## Contribution

The paper provides a comprehensive review of the bioactive properties and delivery technologies of Posidonia oceanica extracts for therapeutic applications.

## Key findings

- Posidonia oceanica contains polyphenols, peptides, and polysaccharides with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects.
- In vitro and in vivo studies show its potential in cancer, skin aging, and metabolic disorders.
- Advanced delivery systems enhance the stability and bioavailability of its extracts for pharmaceutical use.

## Abstract

Posidonia oceanica (L.) Delile, an endemic seagrass of the Mediterranean Sea, has been increasingly recognized not only for its ecological significance but also for its potential as a source of bioactive compounds in human health. Over the past decade, scientific studies have identified diverse constituents of P. oceanica, including polyphenols, peptides, and polysaccharides, which exhibit antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, cytotoxic, and metabolic regulatory activities. Evidence from in vitro and in vivo models demonstrates its ability to influence key cellular processes such as apoptosis, autophagy, and enzyme inhibition, suggesting therapeutic promise in cancer, skin aging, inflammatory conditions, and metabolic disorders like type 2 diabetes. Recent advances in delivery technologies, such as nanoparticles, micelles, and liposomes, have improved the stability and bioavailability of P. oceanica extracts, enhancing their potential application in pharmaceuticals and cosmeceuticals. Additionally, its antimicrobial and antibiofilm properties suggest applications in food preservation and infection control. By bridging traditional uses with modern scientific validation, P. oceanica exemplifies the emerging potential of marine phytotherapy. As interest grows in nature-derived therapeutics, further research is essential to translate these preclinical findings into clinical applications while ensuring sustainable management and the conservation of this valuable marine resource.