Marine-Derived Natural Substances with Anticholinesterase Activity.

Area of Science:

• Marine Biology
• Neuroscience
• Pharmacology

Background:

• Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a leading neurodegenerative disorder.
• Acetylcholinesterase (AChE) inhibitors are key treatments for AD.
• Marine ecosystems offer diverse natural products with anticholinesterase activity.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review marine-derived metabolites with inhibitory effects on AChE and butyrylcholinesterase (BuChE).
• To synthesize information on the neuroprotective properties of these compounds.
• To identify challenges and future directions for clinical application.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of marine natural products.
• Analysis of compounds from bacteria, fungi, sponges, and algae.
• Evaluation of inhibitory activity against AChE and BuChE.
• Assessment of neuroprotective characteristics (antioxidant, anti-amyloid).

Main Results:

• Numerous marine metabolites (meroterpenoids, alkaloids, peptides, phlorotannins) exhibit AChE/BuChE inhibition.
• Compounds display nanomolar to micromolar activity.
• Many possess additional neuroprotective effects like antioxidant and anti-amyloid properties.
• Marine compounds offer structural diversity for drug development.

Conclusions:

• Marine natural products are a valuable resource for developing novel cholinesterase inhibitors.
• Further studies on pharmacokinetics, toxicity, and efficacy are crucial for clinical translation.
• Interdisciplinary research can advance the therapeutic potential of these compounds for AD.