文摘
Klamath algae (Aphanizomenon flos-aquae [AFA] Ralfs ex Born. & Flah. Var. flos aquae), an unicellular microalgae living in the Klamath freshwater lake (USA), presents a very complete nutritional profile, with a very high bioavailabitlity level: 20 amino-acids, more than 60 minerals and trace elements, 14 vitamins, 15 carotenoids, chlorophyll, β-carotenes, omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, and algae specific molecules such as mycosporine-like aminoacids (MAAs) [algae mycosporins], AFA-phycocyanins (AFA-PCs), β-phenylethylamin (PEA). Research works performed by the Nutritherapeutic Research Centre (Urbino, Italy) in collaboration with the University of Urbino, allowed to develop a patented specific extract, with an important neuromodulating and neuroprotective action. The advantages of this extract, obtained via a mechanical extraction process without any chemical solvent (ultra-filtration), come from the synergistic action of PEA (β-PEA) with other microalgae molecules, especially AFA-phycocianins, AFA phytochromes and MAAs, who exert selective inhibiting effects on MAO-B and thus facilitate the action of PEA on the cerebral function. That specific extract contains a synergistic complex of molecules providing beneficial effects on the mental condition, contributing to prevent the ageing of neuronal functions.