Anticancer and Antiviral Activity of Marine Algae

Abstract

Cancer continues to be a global killer, despite the enormous research has developed during the past few decade. According to recent statistics, cancer accounts 23% of total deaths in the India and is the second most common cause of death after the heart disease. Cancer accounts for nearly 1 of every 4 deaths . Moreover, according to Lee Jong-Wook, former Director General of the WHO, by the year 2020, cancer could kill more than 10.3 million people per year unless action is taken in both the field of prevention and treatment . Cancer is caused by both intrinsic factors (such as inherited mutations, hormones, and immune conditions) and extrinsic factors (such as tobacco, diet, radiation, and infectious organisms). The cytotoxic and anticancer investigations of marine resources are increasing worldwide because these marine resources are economical, safe and effective, apart from this these marine resources posses enormous hidden phytoconstituents in the ocean with particular to the development of new chemical entity as anticancer drugs which has isolated from marine algae, seaweeds, tunicates etc.. The present aim of the investigation is to explore the anticancer and antiviral effect of marine algae Acanthophora spicifera belonging to the family: Rhodomelaceae which is widely distributed in Mandapam, Costal region of Tamilnadu, Gulf of Mannar, Bay of Bengal which is chosen its for in vivo and in vitro studies. It is concluded that the red algae species Acanthophora spicifera has been explored in chemical and biological aspects. The poly-phenolic and tannins present in the acanthophora spicifera possesses significant anticancer, antioxidant and antiviral properties in in vitro and in vivo experimental conditions. However, there are further studies need to be established in molecular and nuclear level. Due to limitation and time line which restricts us to proceed further. It is also concluded that further exploration of this species in various biological properties beyond antiviral and anticancer is warranted.