Marine Algae-Derived Bioactive Compounds Stabilizing Collagen-Rich Dental Matrices Through Matrix Metalloproteinase Inhibition: A Scoping Review

TL;DR

This review explores how compounds from marine algae can protect and strengthen dental tissues by inhibiting enzymes and promoting remineralization.

Contribution

The study systematically maps the pharmacological potential of marine algae compounds for dental applications.

Findings

Brown algal derivatives like fucoxanthin and phloroglucinol inhibit MMPs and enhance collagen stability.

Red algae extracts promote enamel remineralization with microhardness comparable to fluoride.

Alginate from brown algae shows promise as a scaffold material for dental tissue engineering.

Abstract

This scoping review mapped the available evidence on marine algae-derived bioactive compounds, focusing on their biological activities related to collagen stabilization, matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) inhibition, and enamel remineralization in dental hard tissues. Four electronic databases (PubMed, Scopus, Embase, and Web of Science) were systematically searched following a predefined protocol. Original experimental studies involving human or animal dental hard tissues were included. Nine studies met the inclusion criteria. Brown algal derivatives, including fucoxanthin, fucosterol, and phloroglucinol, exhibited significant MMP inhibition and, in selected compounds, collagen cross-linking, contributing to enhanced mechanical properties and improved stability of collagen-rich matrices. In contrast, red algae extracts such as Lithothamnion calcareum primarily promoted enamel remineralization, achieving surface microhardness recovery comparable to or superior to 0.05% sodium fluoride. Alginate, a brown algae-derived polysaccharide, also demonstrated functional potential as a scaffold biomaterial through strong hydroxyapatite adsorption and suitability for three-dimensional scaffold fabrication. Overall, marine algae-derived compounds demonstrate biologically relevant activities that modulate collagen stability, enzymatic function, and mineral deposition processes. These findings highlight the pharmacological potential of marine bioactive compounds, with dental hard tissues representing a primary application context. However, further validation using clinically relevant models is required.

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