Food security and nutrition challenges, driven by population growth and climate change, underscore the need for sustainable solutions, leading to increased consumption of cyanobacteria-based supplements like Spirulina sp. and Nostoc sp. While these cyanobacteria are nutritionally rich, they may also produce potentially harmful secondary metabolites, including cyanotoxins. The presence and bioavailability of these compounds depend on factors such as cell wall integrity and metabolic transformation in the digestive tract. Current safety evaluations are insufficient, lacking comprehensive data on bioavailability and toxicological impacts. The CyaSafe project aims to bridge critical knowledge gaps in the safety and efficacy of cyanobacteria. The specific aims are as follows: first, through in vitro studies simulating human digestion, CyaSafe will assess how cyanobacterial metabolites are absorbed and transformed. Second, comprehensive toxicological testing will be performed to evaluate cytotoxicity and genotoxicity, establishing new safety benchmarks. Third, the project will utilize research findings to propose updated technical recommendations, improving regulatory frameworks for these supplements. In addition to its research objectives, CyaSafe will emphasize knowledge transfer and public awareness to foster a better understanding of the risks and benefits of cyanobacteria-based products.
The project will be conducted at the Interdisciplinary Centre of Marine and Environmental Research of University of Porto, a leader in Marine and Environmental Research. A planned secondment with expertise in Toxicology and Food Safety, will facilitate the interdisciplinary collaboration and knowledge exchange.
Through addressing research gaps, improving safety standards, and raising public awareness, CyaSafe aims to protect public health, build confidence and ensure the safety of cyanobacteria-based supplements.