Reebok Launches Plant-based Running Shoes Made with BLOOM Algae
To commemorate World Earth Day, Reebok has released the latest version of its running footwear: Floatride Energy GROW, the high-performance, plant-based running shoe. A BLOOM algae sock liner is molded in for increased support and cushioning. Other key features include a full performance running shoe feel, castor bean midsole for responsiveness and lightweight cushioning, durable and flexible natural rubber outsole, and a breathable Eucalyptus upper.
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Bioelectricity Generated from Live Marine Photosynthetic Macroalgae
Conversion of solar energy into electrical current by photosynthetic organisms has the ability to produce clean energy. Previously reported living-organism based bio-photoelectrochemical cells (BPECs) have utilized unicellular photosynthetic microorganisms. In this study, described for the first time are BPECs that utilize intact live marine macroalgae (seaweeds) in a saline buffer or natural seawater. The ability to produce bioelectricity from intact seaweeds may pave the way toward developing new live tissue-based BPECs and establishing future low-cost energy technologies.
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Health Potential of Algae’s Bioactive Compounds
Microalgae produce many compounds from their primary and secondary metabolism. Studies have shown that these compounds may perform allelopathic, antimicrobial, and antipredator activities. In addition, in vitro and in vivo screenings reveal that several compounds have antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anticancer, and antimicrobial bioactivities, for the possible prevention and treatment of human pathologies. This research reviews the current knowledge on the chemical characteristics, biological activities, mechanisms of action, and the enzymes involved in the synthesis of microalgal metabolites.
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A New Algae-Based Switch is Lighting Up Biological Research
Agroup of scientists have expanded the optogenetics tool kit, especially for dual light applications when short-wavelength excitation is required. What this means is that the light-operated property of channelrhodopsins (gateways that selectively allow charged particles to enter the cells of some organisms and are integral for cell function) can be applied in targeted manipulation of an organism’s biological functions, in a research setting. The real-world applications, the researchers suggest, could include a cure for Alzheimer’s disease and heart diseases, light therapy for recovery from depression, and visual restoration.
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Say Happy Tenth Anniversary to the Algenist Brand
Ten years ago, an innovative biofuel company named Solazyme spun off a skin care line made from algae oil, featuring what they dubbed Alguronic Acid. The vegan Algenist brand continues to make their own exclusive ingredients from renewable sources of algae and plants. Currently, their portfolio includes six ingredients including the patented Alguronic Acid, Blue Algae Vitamin C™ — L-Ascorbic Acid from Spirulina, Microalgae Oil, Green-Algae Encapsulated Vegan Retinol, Algae-Derived Prebiotic and Active Vegan Collagen™ — a whole collagen molecule from plants. According to Tammy Yaiser, VP of Product Development, “The discovery of our Alguronic Acid brought a new molecule to the industry — we remain driven by this scientific creativity.”
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