Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 13, 2026

Valorization of the Red Seaweed Gracilaria gracilis Through a Biorefinery Approach
Published on: November 21, 2023
Conventional and unconventional antimicrobials from fish, marine invertebrates and micro-algae
Valerie J Smith1, Andrew P Desbois, Elisabeth A Dyrynda
1Scottish Oceans Institute, University of St Andrews, St Andrews, KY16 8LB, Scotland, UK. vjs1@st-andrews.ac.uk
Abstract:
All eukaryotic organisms, single-celled or multi-cellular, produce a diverse array of natural anti-infective agents that, in addition to conventional antimicrobial peptides, also include proteins and other molecules often not regarded as part of the innate defences. Examples range from histones, fatty acids, and other structural components of cells to pigments and regulatory proteins. These probably represent very ancient defence factors that have been re-used in new ways during evolution. This review discusses the nature, biological role in host protection and potential biotechnological uses of some of these compounds, focusing on those from fish, marine invertebrates and marine micro-algae.
Related Concept Videos
Biological Methods for Microbial Control
Marine Microbial Ecology
Clinical Significance of Antibiotic Resistance
Chemical Agents for Microbial Control
Antimicrobial Proteins
Interferons
Interferons (IFNs) are proteins produced by lymphocytes, macrophages, and fibroblasts infected with viruses. While IFNs cannot prevent viruses from entering and...
Microorganisms in Medicine and Therapeutics