Edible microalgae for maintaining energy homeostasis. Application to diet-induced metabolic syndrome, physical exercise, and hypoxia

The mALGAHEALTH project provides scientific evidence on the efficacy of the combined action of the microalga Chlorella vulgaris and omega-3 fatty acids (EPA/DHA 1:2) in rat stress models. The mixture studied:

  • Modifies the intestinal microbiota and its metabolites in the short, medium, and long term, both in healthy individuals and in animals exposed to physiological stress.
  • Does not modify the physiological parameters affected by acute exposure to simulated altitude.
  • Induces changes at the level of skeletal muscle fibers, as well as in the functionality of their mitochondria, in an animal model of physical exercise.
  • Attenuates the alteration of the glycemic response in an animal model of prediabetes induced by a diet high in saturated fat.

The results provide scientific evidence for the use of microalgae as functional foods for the prevention of diabetes, obesity, and the promotion of physical exercise.

Project information

Current

Acronym

mALGAHEALTH

Start

01/09/2021

End

31/08/2025

Project call

PID2020

Project reference

PID2020-117009RB-I00

Coordinated by IQAC

Yes

Innovation action

Yes

Total budget

191.180 €

IQAC budget

191.180 €

Principal investigator

Other staff involved