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The Ascidian-Derived Metabolites with Antimicrobial Properties
Marcello Casertano1, Marialuisa Menna1, Concetta Imperatore1
1Department of Pharmacy, University of Naples "Federico II", Via D. Montesano 49, 80131 Napoli, Italy.
Antibiotics (Basel, Switzerland)
|August 23, 2020
Summary
Ascidians, abundant marine invertebrates, are rich sources of bioactive compounds with therapeutic potential against microbial infections. This review explores their antibacterial properties and those of associated microorganisms.
Area of Science:
- Marine Biology
- Natural Product Chemistry
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Ascidians (sub-phylum Tunicate) are diverse marine invertebrates with complex chemistry.
- Their secondary metabolites are recognized for potential therapeutic applications, particularly antimicrobial activities.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the antibacterial activity of ascidian-derived compounds.
- To discuss the role of symbiotic microorganisms in producing bioactive metabolites from ascidians.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of studies on ascidian natural products.
- Analysis of reported chemical structures and their associated bioactivities.
- Inclusion of data on metabolites from ascidian-associated microbes.
Main Results:
- Ascidian-derived compounds including sulfur-containing compounds, meroterpenes, alkaloids, peptides, and furanones exhibit significant antibacterial potential.
- Metabolites from ascidian-associated microorganisms also display potent antibacterial, antifungal, and antiviral activities.
Conclusions:
- Ascidians and their symbiotic microorganisms represent a promising source for novel antimicrobial drug discovery.
- Further research into ascidian chemistry and microbial associations can yield valuable therapeutic agents.
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