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Ulvan-Na, an Ulvan Subjected to Na+ Cation Exchange, Improves Intestinal Barrier Function in Age-Related Leaky Gut

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: The global increase in life expectancy underscores the need to promote healthy aging, particularly by addressing age-related leaky gut syndrome, which contributes to systemic inflammation and chronic disease. This study focused on the sustainable production and functional development of Ulva meridionalis, a fast-growing seaweed, to improve gut health and mitigate the effects of aging. Using land-based aquaculture, a scalable cultivation system for U. meridionalis was established, and its polysaccharide, ulvan, was extracted. Ion exchange treatment enhanced the functionality of ulvan to produce ulvan-Na, which contains high levels of Na+ and conveys superior anti-aging properties. Ulvan-Na restored intestinal barrier integrity in aged mice by reducing serum LPS levels and increasing claudin-1 expression. Ulvan-Na modulated the gut microbiota, increasing beneficial bacteria such as Clostridiales vadin BB60 and suppressing inflammatory bacteria such as Turicibacter. The mechanism was clarified whereby ulvan-Na activates β-catenin to enhance claudin-1 expression. These findings highlight ulvan-Na as a bioactive compound that ameliorates age-related intestinal dysfunction while demonstrating the feasibility of sustainable U. meridionalis production for functional food innovation and environmental conservation.

Source: Marine Drugs

DOI: 10.3390/md23100390

Authors: Yuka Maejima, Yuki Morioka, Yusei Sato, Masanori Hiraoka, Ayumu Onda, Takushi Namba

Institutions: University of Kochi, Kōchi University

Language: English

Topic: Seaweed-derived Bioactive Compounds

Subfield: Aquatic Science

Field: Agricultural and Biological Sciences

Domain: Life Sciences

SDGs: Good health and well-being, Zero hunger

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $3,499