Biologically Active Antimicrobial Compounds from Marine Microorganisms (2005-2019)

Area of Science:

• Marine microbiology
• Antimicrobial drug discovery
• Natural product chemistry

Background:

• Increasing rates of contagious diseases and antimicrobial resistance necessitate novel antimicrobial medications with new mechanisms of action.
• Current antibiotics are often derived from terrestrial plants or fermentation, highlighting the need for alternative sources.
• Marine microorganisms constitute a vast and diverse resource for novel bioactive compounds.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review biologically active antimicrobial compounds derived from marine microorganisms.
• To explore the chemical diversity, bioactivities, and sources of these compounds.
• To summarize marine microorganism exploitation techniques.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of studies published between 2005 and 2019.
• Analysis of reported antimicrobial compounds from marine microbial sources.
• Identification of chemical classes, bioactivities, and isolation methods.

Main Results:

• Marine microorganisms represent a significant reservoir of structurally and functionally complex antimicrobial agents.
• These microbes are involved in diverse biological processes and symbiotic relationships within marine ecosystems.
• Compounds from marine microorganisms show potential in combating infectious diseases, including nosocomial and urinary tract infections.

Conclusions:

• Marine microorganisms are a promising source for novel antimicrobial drug discovery.
• Further research into marine microbial natural products can address the challenge of antimicrobial resistance.
• Exploitation techniques for marine microorganisms are crucial for sustainable drug development.