In vitro gastrointestinal digestion of phlorotannins from Ulva lactuca: Nutritional value and implications in disease mechanisms through pharmacology network

[Display omitted] •20 phlorotannins were identified in Ulva lactuca, with a low polymerization degree.•Ulva lactuca phlorotannins showed a bioaccessibility of 54 %.•Eckol and fucols increased post-digestion, suggesting bioactive compound release.•53 human therapeutic targets were mapped, many tied to critical cancer mechanisms.•Enrichment analysis revealed cancer pathways and apoptosis as crucial biological processes. Ulva lactuca, a green marine macroalga, is known for its potential health benefits due to bioactive compounds such as phlorotannins (PhT). This study aimed to identify and characterize the PhT profile in Ulva lactuca, evaluate their bioaccessibility, and explore their potential therapeutic targets through pharmacological network analysis. The study identified twenty PhT, showing a bioaccessibility of 54 %. Pharmacological network analysis revealed 54 potential targets associated with various disease pathways, including cancer. The findings highlight the nutritional value of Ulva lactuca and suggest the therapeutic potential of its PhT, offering new insights for future research and health applications.