The Source of DPPH Radical Scavenging Activity: Insights from Freshwater Streams Isolated in Giresun

Abstract

Microalgae produce bioactive compounds, specifically antioxidants, that play a central role in fighting oxidative stress. It is a major factor in the development of aging, cancer and cardiovascular diseases. In this study five freshwater microalgal species from Giresun, Türkiye, namely Chlorococcum hypnosporum, Stichococcus bacillaris, Chlorella vulgaris, Chlorolilaea pamvotia, and Desmodesmus opoliensis were isolated. They were stringently screened for antioxidant activity. DPPH (2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl) assay was the method followed in evaluating antioxidant capacity. Chlorococcum hypnosporum showed higher antioxidant activity among the other species. However, the other species showed lower antioxidant activity under the experimental conditions compared to C. hypnosporum. The results of the our study show that microalgae are a good source of high-potential antioxidant compounds and they can be used in therapeutic and health related fields as eco-friendly alternatives compared to the currently globally used synthetic derivatives.

Keywords

• Green Microalgae
• Antioxidant Activity
• DPPH Radical Scavenging
• Health Applications

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