Work

Microalgal therapeutic peptides: From biomass to bone tissue engineering

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: Bone tissue engineering continues to face challenges in developing biomaterials that are both safe and biologically active, particularly in promoting integration with native tissue. Traditional synthetic materials often lack cellular compatibility, driving research toward natural and biomimetic alternatives. In this context, microalgae have a diverse metabolic profile, producing several biologically active compounds (i.e. lipids, carbohydrates, pigments) with therapeutic potential for bone regeneration. Among these, peptides gain relevance due to their high cellular compatibility, osteogenic activity and tunable properties. Herein, this review provides a comprehensive and critical overview of microalgae-derived peptides, covering their manufacturing process. It covers the entire workflow from protein extraction to peptide purification and characterization. It summarizes their biological properties and therapeutic applications in bone regeneration and examines their status in clinical studies alongside the main regulatory and translational challenges. Particular focus will be given to the combination of advanced delivery systems for using microalgae therapeutic peptides to develop patient-specific implants. Overall, this review emphasizes the significance of microalgae as a versatile and sustainable resource to extract therapeutic peptides and to develop the next generation of biomaterials in bone regenerative medicine.

Source: Materials Today Bio

DOI: 10.1016/j.mtbio.2026.102938

Authors: Diana Pacheco, Tatiana M.F. Patrício, Abílio J.F.N. Sobral, Telma Encarnação

Institutions: Universidade de Leiria e Oeste, University of Coimbra

Language: English

Topic: Bone Tissue Engineering Materials

Subfield: Biomedical Engineering

Field: Engineering

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $3,400