Seaweeds' pigments and phenolic compounds with antimicrobial potential

Area of Science:

• Marine Biology
• Natural Product Chemistry
• Antimicrobial Research

Background:

• Growing resistance to synthetic antimicrobials necessitates alternative therapeutic strategies.
• Seaweeds are sustainable marine resources rich in bioactive polar molecules.
• Previous research indicates antimicrobial potential in seaweed-derived pigments and phenolic compounds.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review current knowledge on seaweed-derived pigments and phenolic compounds.
• To explore their chemical characteristics and antimicrobial bioactivity.
• To understand their mechanisms of action against microorganisms.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of scientific databases (e.g., PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science).
• Analysis of studies detailing isolation, characterization, and bioactivity testing of seaweed compounds.
• Synthesis of information on mechanisms of antimicrobial action.

Main Results:

• Identification of various pigments (e.g., carotenoids, phycobiliproteins) and phenolic compounds (e.g., flavonoids, tannins) from diverse seaweed species.
• Demonstration of broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity against bacteria and fungi, including resistant strains.
• Elucidation of proposed mechanisms, such as cell membrane disruption and enzyme inhibition.

Conclusions:

• Seaweed pigments and phenolic compounds represent a promising source of novel antimicrobial agents.
• Further research can facilitate the development of these natural compounds for pharmaceutical, biomedical, and industrial applications.
• Sustainable cultivation and extraction methods are key for future utilization.