A study led by the Centre of Marine Sciences of the Algarve (CCMAR) reveals that an extract from the marine microalga Skeletonema costatum may help protect against osteoporosis by acting on the immune system. The discovery is especially significant because this microalga is already cultivated in Europe and under approval for human consumption, opening the way for natural dietary supplements that could support bone health.

The research focused on an ethanol extract from S. costatum, previously shown to reduce inflammation and stimulate bone formation. The team tested the extract, known as SKLT, in zebrafish and medaka fish, as well as in mouse immune cells, to investigate whether it could also prevent excessive bone degradation.

The results show that compounds in Skeletonema costatum help calm immune pathways that drive bone loss. Since chronic inflammation is a key factor in osteoporosis, this immune-regulating effect makes SKLT a promising candidate for future nutraceuticals or supportive therapies. By reducing inflammatory and T-cell-related signals, the extract limits the formation and activity of osteoclasts, the cells responsible for breaking down bone.

Next steps for the researchers include isolating the active molecules in the extract, improving delivery methods and testing its effects in mammalian models.

Read the article: here.

Credit: Skeletonema Necton / CCMAR