Jellyfish Collagen as a Promising Source for Nutraceutical and Biomedical Applications

Abstract: Jellyfish blooms have become increasingly common worldwide, driven by climate change, eutrophication, and the jellyfish’s unique life cycle. The rich protein derived from these resources notably, jellyfish collagen (JFC) and its hydrolysates (JFCH) peptides stands out as promising, sustainable alternatives to traditional collagen sources like bovine and rat tail collagen. Notably, JFC carries a reduced risk of prion and viral contamination, making it a safer option for diverse applications. As a fundamental collagen form, JFC is compatible with various cell types, enhancing its utility across multiple domains. Furthermore, JFCH peptides act as potent bioactive ingredients, especially in the food industry, where their high antioxidant properties are valued in nutraceutical formulations. Immunological research also suggests that JFC can promote immunoglobulin production and stimulate cytokine synthesis, revealing its potential for immune system support. Due to its versatility, JFC can facilitate the growth of various human cell types, positioning it as an effective biomaterial for wound care, tissue engineering, cartilage regeneration, drug delivery, and cell culture applications. This review highlights recent advancements in JFC and JFCH applications across nutraceuticals, immunology, wound healing, tissue engineering, and regenerative medicine in —those not extensively covered in previous literature.