3. INTRODUCTION
Cyanobacteria are a group of photosynthetic bacteria that can produce oxygen through
the process of photosynthesis. They are commonly found in both freshwater and
marine environments, and are important primary producers in many ecosystems.
Cyanobacteria are classified based on their morphology and pigmentation, and there
are many different types of cyanobacteria. Some common types of cynobactria
includes Oscillatoria ,Nostoc, anabena , synechococcus
Cyanobacteria are prokaryotic cells, which means that they lack a nucleus and other
membrane-bound organelles. Instead, their genetic material is contained within a
nucleoid region. Cyanobacteria also have a unique cell wall structure, which is
composed of peptidoglycan and other specialized polysaccharides.
They are capable of fixing atmospheric nitrogen, which allows them to thrive in
nitrogen-poor environment. Cyanobacteria are also able to form specialized cells
called akinetes or spores, which allow them to survive adverse environmental
condition .
Flagella is absent in Cyanobacteria , they show gliding movement .
5. Figure: 5
NUTRACEUTICALS
Nutraceuticals are food or food-derived products that
provide health benefits beyond basic nutritional
functions.
They are often used as supplements to support and
promote overall health and wellness, and can include
vitamins, minerals, herbs, amino acids, and other
natural or synthetic compounds
For example, some nutraceuticals have been shown to
have antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and immune-
boosting effects, which can help to reduce the risk of
diseases such as cancer, heart disease, and diabetes.
Figure - 2
6. CYNOBACTERIA AS NUTRACEUTICALS
USE AS PROTEINS
1. Spirulina: Spirulina is a blue-green algae that has been
traditionally used as a food source in various parts of the world.
Spirulina is known for its high protein content, typically
ranging from 60-70% of dry weight, making it a popular source
of protein for dietary supplements and functional foods.
2. Aphanizomenon flos-aquae (AFA): AFA is a type of
cyanobacteria that is found in freshwater lakes and ponds. AFA
is known for its high protein content, typically ranging from 60-
70% of dry weight, as well as its content of other nutrients, such
as vitamins and minerals.
3. Arthrospira platensis (AP): AP, also known as Spirulina
platensis, is a type of blue-green algae . AP has a high protein
contents as well as other nutrients, such as vitamins, minerals,
and antioxidants.
Figure -3
Figure - 4
7. Having anti -cancer properties
cyanobacteria contain compounds such as phycocyanin and polysaccharides, which have
been found to have anti-cancer properties in vitro and in animal studies. These
compounds may help to inhibit the growth and spread of cancer cells, potentially by
inducing apoptosis (programmed cell death) or inhibiting angiogenesis (the growth of
new blood vessels that supply tumors with nutrients).
1. Nostoc commune: This cyanobacterium has been found to contain compounds that
can inhibit the growth of cancer cells.
2. Anabaena: Studies have shown that certain extracts of Anabaena can induce
apoptosis (programmed cell death) in cancer cells, potentially leading to their
destruction.
3. Arthrospira platensis (Spirulina): Spirulina has been found to contain compounds
that can help inhibit the growth of tumors and improve the effectiveness of cancer
treatments.
8. Cardiovascular health benefits
The omega-3 fatty acids found in certain types of
cyanobacteria, such as Spirulina, have been shown to have
positive effects on cardiovascular health.
These fatty acids can help reduce inflammation, lower
triglyceride levels, and improve blood lipid profiles, all of
which are important factors in maintaining heart health.
Additionally, some studies have suggested that consuming
cyanobacteria supplements may help lower blood pressure.
This may be due to the presence of compounds in
cyanobacteria that have been found to have vasodilatory
effects, meaning they can help relax and widen blood
vessels, reducing resistance to blood flow and lowering
blood pressure.
Figure-5
9. REFERENCES
Seshasayee, A. S. N., Sivaraman, K., & Luscombe, N. M. (2011). An overview of
cynobacteria benefits . A handbook application of cynobacteria 7-23.
van Hijum. S. A., Medema, M. H., & Kuipers, O. P. (2009). Microbiology and
Molecular Biology Reviews, 73(3), 481-509.
Schreiber, V., Steegborn, C., Clausen. T., Boos, W., & Richet, E. (2000). A new
mechanism for health benefitsof blue green algae . Molecular Microbiology, 35(4),
765-776.
10. ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
Special thanks to My Subject teacher, Dr. Sunita Sat apathy School of Applied
Sciences, CUTM, Bhubaneswar.
All the faculty members of Department of Zoology, School of Applied Science,
CUTM, Bhubaneswar.
Family and Friends.
