Siderophores produced by marine microorganisms

Area of Science:

• Microbiology
• Biochemistry
• Marine Biology

Background:

• Siderophores are essential low-molecular-weight compounds secreted by microorganisms to chelate iron in iron-deficient environments.
• Marine siderophores exhibit greater structural and functional diversity compared to their terrestrial counterparts.
• Fifty-seven marine microbial strains (54 bacterial, 3 fungal) have been identified as siderophore producers.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review recent advancements in marine siderophore biology.
• To highlight the diverse structures and functions of marine siderophores.
• To explore the potential applications of marine siderophores.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of reported marine siderophores and their producing microorganisms.
• Classification of marine siderophores based on functional groups and hydrophobicity.
• Analysis of the amphiphilicity distinguishing marine from terrestrial siderophores.

Main Results:

• A total of 105 marine microbial siderophores were reported by 2024.
• Marine siderophores are primarily categorized into hydroxamates, catecholates, carboxylates, mixed, and other types.
• Hydroxamates represent the most common class of marine siderophores.
• Marine siderophores possess amphiphilic properties, differentiating them from terrestrial siderophores.

Conclusions:

• Marine siderophores are structurally diverse and play vital roles in marine microbial ecology.
• Marine siderophores offer promising applications in medicine, fish disease control, bioremediation, and biosensor development.