Nannochloropsis Oculata Extract
Also known as: Nannochloropsis oculata, Nannochloropsis, microalgae extract
Overview
Nannochloropsis oculata is a marine microalgae species recognized for its high lipid content, particularly polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs), along with phenolic compounds and antioxidants. It thrives in marine environments and is cultivated for its nutritional and cosmetic applications. As a dietary supplement, the extract is valued for its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and lipid-modulating effects. In cosmetics, it's used for its skin-protective properties. Research is ongoing, with in vivo animal studies and some human-related trials, but comprehensive systematic reviews are limited. Evidence quality varies, with more robust data from animal models and preliminary human studies. It is available in oral supplement and topical forms.
Benefits
Nannochloropsis oculata extract offers several potential health benefits, primarily supported by animal studies. It exhibits anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, demonstrated by reductions in pro-inflammatory cytokines (IL-6, NF-κB, and IL-1β) in diabetic rat models, suggesting benefits for managing oxidative stress and inflammation. Supplementation in poultry has shown improved performance and antioxidant status under heat stress, with increased total protein and globulin levels. The extract is a rich source of PUFAs, especially eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), essential for cardiovascular and cognitive health. Topically, it provides a moderate sun protection factor (SPF), indicating potential in cosmetic photoprotection. Further human clinical trials are needed to confirm these benefits.
How it works
Nannochloropsis oculata exerts its effects through several biological pathways. Its anti-inflammatory action is likely mediated by downregulating NF-κB signaling and reducing pro-inflammatory cytokines like IL-6 and IL-1β. The antioxidant effects stem from its phenolic compounds and PUFA content, which scavenge reactive oxygen species and enhance endogenous antioxidant enzymes. Lipids, especially EPA, contribute to membrane fluidity and the production of anti-inflammatory eicosanoids. These components interact with immune modulation, liver metabolism, and skin protection pathways, enhancing antioxidant defenses in blood and tissues. The lipid components, such as EPA, are bioavailable, contributing to systemic effects, while phenolic compounds may have variable absorption depending on the formulation.
Side effects
Nannochloropsis oculata is generally considered safe based on animal studies, with no reported adverse effects at tested doses. However, human safety data are limited, and caution is advised until more data are available. No common or uncommon side effects have been reported in the reviewed studies. Due to its PUFA content, potential interactions with anticoagulants or anti-inflammatory drugs are theoretical but unconfirmed. There is a lack of data available for pregnant or lactating women, children, or patients with chronic diseases. Further research is needed to fully establish the safety profile in diverse populations and to identify any potential drug interactions or contraindications.
Dosage
Due to the limited number of human clinical trials, there are no established dosing guidelines for Nannochloropsis oculata extract in humans. Animal studies have shown benefits in poultry supplemented with 0.5-1.0% of their diet as Nannochloropsis oculata over approximately 13 weeks. Topical formulations at a 2% concentration have demonstrated a moderate SPF effect. Lipid-based formulations may enhance the bioavailability of PUFAs. Until more data are available, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional before using Nannochloropsis oculata extract, especially for individuals with pre-existing health conditions or those taking medications.
FAQs
Is Nannochloropsis oculata extract safe?
Animal studies suggest safety at tested doses; however, human safety data are insufficient. Consult with a healthcare provider before use.
What benefits can I expect?
Potential antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, improved metabolic parameters in animals, and skin photoprotection topically are possible benefits.
How long before effects appear?
Based on animal studies, effects may take weeks to months to appear. Human data is needed to confirm this.
Can it replace fish oil for omega-3?
It is a rich source of EPA and may serve as a plant-based omega-3 source, but human comparative studies are lacking. Consult with a healthcare provider.
Research Sources
- https://www.degruyterbrill.com/document/doi/10.1515/bmc-2022-0025/html – This animal RCT using a diabetic rat model found that algae supplementation significantly reduced IL-6, NF-κB, and IL-1β, indicating anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. The study's limitations include its animal model, lack of human data, and unclear sample size, making it difficult to extrapolate these findings directly to human health.
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39043736/ – This RCT with 180 laying hens demonstrated that supplementation with 0.5-1.0% Nannochloropsis oculata improved blood protein, globulin, and antioxidant status significantly (p < 0.05) over 13 weeks. The study is well-controlled with replicates, making it relevant for animal nutrition, but its applicability to human health is limited.
- https://www.mdpi.com/1660-3397/23/3/128 – This systematic review of lipid classes and PUFA content in Nannochloropsis species highlights the importance of EPA and its potential health applications. While it doesn't include direct clinical trials, it provides a comprehensive biochemical analysis supporting the potential benefits of Nannochloropsis oculata.
- https://www.mdpi.com/1660-3397/22/10/460 – This systematic review on phenolic content in microalgae, including Nannochloropsis, supports the antioxidant potential of phenolic compounds in microalgae. Although it lacks direct clinical outcomes, it provides biochemical evidence supporting the antioxidant properties of Nannochloropsis oculata.
- https://pharmakonpress.gr/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/1-pp31-36-LiakopoulouHatziantoniou-Study-of-the-cosmetic.microalgae-exracts-%E2%80%93-The-case-of-Nannochloropsis-oculata_V2.pdf – This in vitro and formulation study on SPF values of microalgae extracts, including Nannochloropsis, showed that Nannochloropsis extract had a moderate SPF (~12.5 at 2% concentration). This suggests its potential for topical antioxidant and photoprotection applications, making it useful in cosmetic formulations.