Aorta as a nutritional target: Marine algae–derived functional foods for vascular resilience and longevity

Emerging evidence suggests that aortic structure and function are responsive to nutritional modulation, opening new avenues for cardiovascular prevention beyond conventional pharmacological strategies. Drawing from the literature, we synthesize current knowledge on key bioactive compounds from marine algae and their mechanistic roles in modulating oxidative stress, inflammation, endothelial function, lipid metabolism, and extracellular matrix remodeling within aortic tissue. Literature were derived from PubMed/MEDLINE, Scopus, Web of Science, and Google Scholar, focusing on article published until November 2025 without publication year restriction. A central focus of this review is the gut–aorta axis, highlighting how indigestible marine polysaccharides act as prebiotic substrates for gut microbiota, promoting short-chain fatty acid production and suppressing proatherogenic metabolites such as trimethylamine N-oxide. Collectively, the evidence supports the concept of the aorta as a nutritionally modifiable target and positions marine algae–derived bioactives as promising candidates for functional food development aimed at enhancing vascular resilience and longevity. This review refines the broader gut–vascular paradigm by applying it specifically to large-artery biology, conceptualizing a gut–aorta axis that emphasizes mechanisms governing aortic stiffness, extracellular matrix remodeling, and endothelial glycocalyx integrity. However, significant gaps remain, particularly regarding standardized bioactive characterization, dose–response relationships, and long-term randomized controlled human trials with aortic-specific endpoints. Addressing these challenges will be essential to translate marine algae-based ingredients into standardized, evidence-based functional food formulations within precision nutrition frameworks. • Marine algae bioactives support aortic resilience and vascular longevity • Polysaccharides modulate gut–aorta axis via microbiome-derived metabolites • Algal compounds reduce oxidative stress and vascular inflammation • Functional marine foods target endothelial function and aortic stiffness • Sustainable marine resources for precision cardiovascular nutrition