Marine bioactive peptides with anticancer potential, a narrative review

Area of Science:

• Marine Biology
• Pharmacology
• Biochemistry

Background:

• Marine organisms are a rich source of bioactive compounds.
• Marine bioactive peptides exhibit diverse pharmacological activities.
• Several marine peptides have shown promise in preclinical and clinical cancer research.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore marine bioactive peptides with anticancer potential.
• To identify sources and mechanisms of action for these peptides.
• To assess their therapeutic prospects in medicine.

Main Methods:

• Isolation and identification of peptides from marine organisms like tunicates, sponges, and mollusks.
• Enzymatic hydrolysis for peptide extraction from marine proteins.
• Evaluation of peptide activity against cancer cells and exploration of their mechanisms (e.g., apoptosis, angiogenesis).

Main Results:

• Peptides such as Stylisin, Papuamides, Jaspamide, Homophymins, Aplidine, and Kahalalide F demonstrate potent cytotoxic activity against cancer cells.
• Marine peptides influence key cancer pathways including apoptosis, microtubule dynamics, and angiogenesis.
• Some peptides target known pathways, while others act via novel mechanisms.

Conclusions:

• Marine-derived bioactive peptides represent a promising source for novel anticancer drug development.
• Further research into their mechanisms and optimization can lead to effective cancer therapies.
• These peptides offer diverse therapeutic strategies for cancer treatment.