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Natural Antimicrobial Agents from Algae: Current Advances and Future Directions
Antonio Zuorro1, Roberto Lavecchia1, Jefferson E Contreras-Ropero2
1Department of Chemical Engineering, Materials and Environment, Sapienza University, Via Eudossiana 18, 00184 Roma, Italy.
International Journal of Molecular Sciences
|November 9, 2024
Summary
Algae yield potent antimicrobial compounds effective against drug-resistant bacteria. Research highlights their potential as natural alternatives to synthetic drugs, addressing a critical global health challenge.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Natural Product Chemistry
- Biotechnology
Background:
- Infectious diseases have historically driven medical advancements, with antibiotics being a key breakthrough.
- The emergence of antibiotic-resistant pathogens poses a significant global health threat.
- Limitations of synthetic antimicrobials necessitate exploring alternative solutions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the antimicrobial properties of compounds derived from algae (microalgae and cyanobacteria).
- To analyze the potential of these natural compounds against multi-drug-resistant bacteria.
- To identify research trends and mechanisms of action for algal-derived antimicrobials.
Main Methods:
- Comprehensive literature review of algal-derived antimicrobial compounds.
- Bibliometric analysis using VOSviewer to identify research clusters.
- Identification of mechanisms of action, including protein synthesis inhibition and cell membrane disruption.
Main Results:
- Algal compounds like polysaccharides, fatty acids, and phenols exhibit antimicrobial activity.
- Effectiveness demonstrated against multi-drug-resistant bacterial strains.
- Key research areas identified include antibiotic resistance, algal extracts, biosynthesis, water treatment, and novel compounds.
Conclusions:
- Algae are a promising source of bioactive compounds with antimicrobial potential.
- These natural compounds offer an alternative to synthetic antimicrobials.
- Future research should focus on optimizing production and delivery systems for algal bioactives.
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