The real
definition may still be a misery to the science community, as most of the
definitions available seem to vary in composition and structure. However, it is
correct to define it as a water-soluble light-harvesting, blue-green,
pigment-binding pigment that exists in marine and freshwater habitats. Some of
the species of blue-green algae that are sources of Phycocyanin include
Anabaena and Platensis. Phycocyanin is however mostly known as a commercial
blue colorant. Not only has the existence of phycocyanin positively
affected pharmaceutical research but has also pioneered the cropping up of new
ventures in pharmacy and primatology.
The Structure Of
phycocyanin
This is
yet another interesting part of phycocyanin.
It has a similar resemblance to the structure of all phycobiliproteins. It
commences with the creation of monomers, which are heterodimers created through
the merging of and β subunits, along with their corresponding Chromophores
interlinked via thioether bond. Sounds like rocket science?
The monomers then aggregate automatically to form ring-shaped trimmers (αβ) 3,
which co-exist in a ration symmetry, along with a central channel. The
resulting trimmers then multiply hence forming hexamers (αβ) 6, which may take
place as a result of a boost by additional linker proteins. Despite the close
similarity of phycobiliproteins, phycocyanin may vary in the crystal structure,
(though not very easy to detect). There exist different structures of
phycocyanins and about 44 crystal structures and composition of phycocyanin
were announced to exist in the Protein Data Bank.
The Health Benefits and
Common Uses Of phycocyanin
Phycocyanin
is the most dominant component in Spirulina and has been discovered to have a
ton of benefits in health, Pharmacy and many other areas of interest. Here are
some of the health benefits of Phycocyanin. Note that Phycocyanin and Spirulina
may be used interchangeably in this Context since it contains the largest
percentage in Spirulina’s chemical composition. Here are some health benefits
of the natural compound, based on available evidence.
May Have Anti-Cancer Properties
It has
been scientifically proven that phycocyanin may have anticancer
properties. Research done on some animals indicated that Spirulina may
directly or indirectly affect the occurrence of Cancer, mainly oral cancer
(OSMF).
Phycocyanin has a High Nutrient
Composition
This is
one of the most interesting health benefits of the compound. It is known
for its high concentration in minerals, proteins and minerals. Its main
component ‘Spirulina’ was even suggested to be grown on Mars by NASA! Speaking
of nutrients, It has a complete composition and a high content of amino acids
that may be very crucial and accounts for 37.42% of the total amino acids
composition.
It is
mainly known as “most promising natural remedies that can inhibit
Pro-Inflammatory COX-2 enzymes) these enzymes are main carriers of inflammation
and pain since they attack the cartilages and the joints.
Anti-allergic (asthma, hay
fever), immunomodulation
The
natural compund is currently considered to be among the few natural compounds
that can fight asthma. This makes it a very special compound. It also reduces
the effects of allergic reactions by producing molecules that inhibit
inflammation which may be an allergic trigger.
May Improve Muscle Strength and
Endurance (Stimulation of EPO)
Studies have associated Spirulina with muscle
increased strength endurance abilities on the human body.The compound comes
from a marine environment, which means that it contains antioxidant properties,
which can be leveraged by athletes and other people to minimize muscle fatigue
that mainly occurs mainly due to ‘Exercise-Induced oxidative damage’
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