Key Points
Immunopotentiating activities have been found in whole cells such as bacteria, mushrooms, algae, lichens, and higher plants. Microalgae with its long history of food use, easy cultivation, and high nutritional content make it a valuable source for immunomodulating studies. One of the main components that possesses the immunomodulating activity is the polysaccharides of the cell. The basic mechanism of the immunostimulatory activity is through the stimulation of the macrophages and modulation of the complement system.