Turning an Ecological Threat into Health Innovation: The ROGOK4HEALTH Project

Across the Portuguese coastline, a rapidly spreading invasive seaweed is creating growing environmental and economic challenges. Massive blooms of Rugulopteryx okamurae, first detected in Lagos in 2021, have expanded aggressively along the coast, impacting native ecosystems, fisheries, tourism and coastal biodiversity.

Supported by the FAM Foundation, the ROGOK4HEALTH project, developed by CCMAR – Centro de Ciências do Mar do Algarve, seeks to transform this ecological challenge into an opportunity for health innovation and sustainable blue bioeconomy development.

Led by Dina Simes and an interdisciplinary research team at the University of Algarve, the project explores the potential of Rugulopteryx okamurae as a source of natural Vitamin K1 and novel bioactive compounds with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.

From Coastal Threat to Blue Bioeconomy

The rapid expansion of this invasive algae species has generated increasing management costs and ecological pressures along coastal regions. At the same time, sustainable valorisation pathways for the accumulated biomass remain limited.

ROGOK4HEALTH proposes a different approach: instead of viewing the algae solely as an environmental problem, the project investigates how this biomass can be converted into valuable bioactive resources for nutraceutical, cosmetic and health-related applications.

By connecting marine conservation with human health innovation, the project contributes to a circular and regenerative blue economy model aligned with sustainability and resource efficiency principles.

Exploring Marine Bioactive Compounds

A central focus of the project is the extraction and characterization of Vitamin K1 and other bioactive compounds from the invasive algae using sustainable high-pressure CO₂ extraction processes. Researchers aim to develop environmentally friendly extraction methodologies capable of producing enriched fractions with potential health-promoting properties.

The scientific work also includes antioxidant and anti-inflammatory bioassays using human cell-based models, as well as the development of microencapsulated formulations designed to improve stability and bioavailability of the compounds.

These approaches may contribute to future applications in nutraceuticals, cosmetics and preventive health solutions targeting chronic inflammatory conditions.

Science, Citizen Engagement and Long-Term Monitoring

The project combines advanced marine biotechnology with strong community engagement. Building on the “Algas na Praia” citizen science platform launched in 2021, the initiative supports long-term monitoring and geo-referenced mapping of invasive algae accumulation along the Portuguese coast.

This participatory approach enables collaboration between researchers, local communities, environmental agencies and coastal stakeholders, contributing both to scientific knowledge and public awareness regarding marine ecosystem changes.

The project also promotes sustainable biomass harvesting practices and supports education and outreach activities connected to ocean sustainability and marine conservation.

Building on Proven Scientific Expertise

ROGOK4HEALTH builds on previous research developed under the NutriSafe project and integrates expertise from several scientific areas, including marine biotechnology, pharmaceutical technology, functional biochemistry, drug delivery systems, invasive species ecology and green extraction technologies.

The multidisciplinary team includes researchers from CCMAR, Universidade do Algarve, NOVA FCT and industry partners working on sustainable marine innovation and bioactive product development.

Supporting Sustainable Ocean Innovation

For the FAM Foundation, supporting ROGOK4HEALTH reflects a commitment to projects that combine scientific excellence, sustainability and practical societal impact.

By transforming an invasive species into a source of innovation and value, ROGOK4HEALTH represents a powerful example of how environmental challenges can inspire science-driven solutions for a more sustainable future.

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Aligned with SDG 14 – Life Below Water, as well as broader health and innovation objectives, the project demonstrates how marine science can contribute not only to ecosystem protection, but also to the development of new sustainable economic opportunities and health-related solutions.