What is phycocyanin? 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. 

 Anti-inflammatory 

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’.

May Be Effective Against Anemia

As discussed in the previous health benefit it may increase hemoglobin content in the red blood cells, hence reducing fatigue and boosting muscle strength.  This may have a positive effect on anemia control as Anemia is mainly characterized by a reduced amount of hemoglobin your body.

Other Applications of Phycocyanin

I have already discussed most of the phycocyanin applications since most of them are pharmaceutical/medicinal based. They can also be used in genetically applications as tracers, especially due to their natural fluorescence ability. They also become very useful when it comes to the food industry, especially as natural blue colorants. Phycocyanin Powder is FDA approved and can be used as a raw material in the creation of flavored beverages, candies, jellies, among other delicacies.

 The Bottom-line of Phycocyanin Existence

 It’s obviously evident that Phycocyanin has more to offer than we have managed to explore. Want to try this component? Realize the full potential of  Phycocyanin, and how it may transform your area of operation.