Mechanistic pathways underlying the antidiabetic potential of sea grapes (Caulerpa spp.): A systematic review across experimental and human evidence

Abstract

Sea grapes (Caulerpa lentillifera and Caulerpa racemosa) are edible green seaweeds of interest for glycaemic control, but the evidence is dispersed across heterogeneous assays and primarily in preclinical models. We conducted a PRISMA 2020 systematic review (PROSPERO CRD420251121741), searching PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science from inception to 1 August 2025, with citation chasing. Studies evaluating sea-grape foods/ processed products, extracts/fractions for glycaemic outcomes or diabetes-relevant mechanisms were synthesised using a tier-aware hierarchy (enzyme/cell/animal/human) reflecting their proximity to glycaemic regulation. Forty-nine studies were included, dominated by animal and enzyme-tier evidence with three human studies. Findings were most consistent for proximal mechanisms-alpha-glucosidase and alpha-amylase inhibition and attenuation of postprandial glycaemic excursions-whereas insulin sensitivity and glucose uptake pathways were supportive but preclinical-only. Antioxidant and anti-inflammatory outcomes were common but less diabetes-specific and rarely confirmed in humans. Sea grapes show promise for postprandial glycaemic control, but translation into functional-food applications requires food-grade standardised preparations, compositional characterisation, harmonised outcomes, and adequately powered meal-challenge trials. Show more