Anti-leishmanial compounds from microbial metabolites: a promising source
Ana F S da Cunha1, Yvanna L Di C Oliveira2, Silvio S Dolabella2
1Industrial Biotechnology Post-Graduation Program, University of Tiradentes, Aracaju, Sergipe, Brazil.
Applied Microbiology and Biotechnology
|October 9, 2021
Summary
Microbial metabolites offer a promising avenue for developing new treatments against leishmaniasis, a neglected tropical disease. This review explores their potential to overcome drug resistance and improve patient outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Parasitology
- Medicinal Chemistry
- Drug Discovery
Background:
- Leishmaniasis is a significant global health issue, disproportionately affecting impoverished populations.
- Current treatments for leishmaniasis are hampered by toxicity, lengthy regimens, and increasing parasite resistance.
- There is an urgent need for novel therapeutic strategies to combat this disease effectively.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review existing research on microbial metabolites with activity against Leishmania parasites.
- To highlight the potential of microbial compounds as a source for new antileishmanial drugs.
- To explore novel therapeutic perspectives for leishmaniasis treatment.
Main Methods:
- Systematic literature search of scientific databases (PubMed, Science Direct) for relevant articles.
- Inclusion of research published between 1999 and 2021.
- Focus on studies describing microbes and their metabolites exhibiting antileishmanial activity.
Main Results:
- Identified 39 research articles detailing microbial metabolites with demonstrated activity against Leishmania parasites.
- Highlighted the diverse structural scaffolds and complexity of microbial metabolites.
- Confirmed the historical significance of microbial compounds in drug discovery.
Conclusions:
- Microbial metabolites represent a valuable and largely untapped resource for developing next-generation antileishmanial drugs.
- Further investigation into these compounds could lead to more effective and less toxic treatments for leishmaniasis.
- Harnessing microbial diversity is crucial for addressing the challenges posed by drug-resistant Leishmania strains.
