Phlorotannins and fucoidans from marine macroalgae as matrix metalloproteinase inhibitory substances and their possible application as medicinal foods.

Metalloproteinases especially matrix metalloproteinases are a group of endopeptidases that contribute for the extracellular matrix degradation, and several tissue remodeling processes. Improper regulation of these endopeptidases could lead to several severe pathological problems that include cardiac, cartilage, and cancer-related diseases. Until now, many synthetic matrix metalloproteinase inhibitory substances (MMPIs) have been reported; however, many of them could not make to the final clinical trials. Hence, the emphasis on screening of MMPIs from different natural resources has gained much importance and marine resources are one among them. As marine organisms have been contributing with several biologically active compounds that have profound applications in nutraceuticals, cosmeceuticals, and pharmaceuticals; in this chapter, an attempt has been made to discuss the various MMPIs from edible seaweeds, which could be considered as medicinal foods.