Unlocking the Health Benefits of Spinochromes: Bioactive Compounds from Sea Urchins

VOLONTERI, CLARA; AVARO, MARISA; DE LARRAÑAGA, GABRIELA; RUBILAR, TAMARA

Bioactive Compounds and Functional Foods: Pro-health benefits and Applications

Elsevier

Año: 2024;

Spinochromes are marine polyphenols found in sea urchin shells, spines, gonads, coelomic fluid and eggs. These molecules are polyhydroxylated 1,4-naphthoquinones belonging to the quinones family with pharmacological properties. Spinochromes have two carbonyl groups in positions 1,4 in the naphthalene ring and several alcohol groups, from which the name derives. These molecules are known for their exceptional antioxidant power, this antioxidant capacity depends upon the amount of hydroxyls found in the naphthalene rings. Another special characteristic of Spinochromes is their size and polarity: they are very small molecules and, due to their large number of hydroxyls, they are hydrophilic, allowing them to get inside the cells quite easily. Spinochromes are able to neutralize large amounts of reactive oxygen species and by doing this, they mimic the SOD enzyme activity promoting the glutathione endogenous pathway activation and boosting mitochondrial activity and mass. This characteristic transforms Spinochromes into unique antioxidants with extensive health benefits. The wide health benefits of Spinochromes include diminishing oxidative stress; enhancing of immune system; diminishing cellular inflammation; enhancing mitochondrial activity and mass; acting as protectors against cytotoxics; improving the lipid profile; decreasing lipid peroxidation; improving carbohydrate metabolism; having a positive effect on fat metabolism and body weight; reducing oxidative stress in the lungs; helping prevent cognitive problems; preventing cell aging and hair loss, among others.