[Polar microorganisms, a potential source for new natural medicines--a review]

Microorganisms are an important component of polar ecosystems. Based on the unique features of geographical location, climate and environment of polar regions, the novelty and biodiversity of polar microorganisms have attracted an increasing attention for their significant values in both scientific research and resources exploitation. Bioprospecting and natural products research of polar microorganisms have become a hot field of microbiology. In this review, following the introduction of bioprospecting and culture collection of polar microorganisms in recent years, the research and development of microbial bioactive compounds aimed for pharmaceuticals and biological agriculture chemicals are summarized. In addition, factors that currently limit the research progress are discussed. It is believed that the resources exploitation of polar microorganisms can provide an opportunity for discovery of new natural medicines. Compared to human pharmaceuticals, the research and development of biological agriculture chemicals has more possibilities to achieve a breakthrough in a short period of time.