The Potential of Microalgae in Natural Product Research: A Comprehensive Review
Year: 2025
Type: conference-paper
Abstract: The One Health model emphasizes the interconnectedness between human, animal, and environmental health. Within this context, the environment is increasingly recognized as a vital reservoir of bioactive molecules, positioning natural sources, such as bacteria and algae, at the forefront of antibiotic discovery. This search has become crucial as antimicrobial resistance is escalating globally. Microalgae, a phylogenetically diverse group of photosynthetic microorganisms, are particularly recognized as valuable candidates in this context. They occupy various ecological niches and are associated with heterotrophic bacteria that regulate biogeochemical cycles, develop microbial communities, and moderate destructive algal blooms (HABs). These interactions in microalgae, directed through active chemical signaling networks, produce various metabolites with unexploited pharmaceutical potential. Harnessing this reservoir involves a convergent strategy with microbiology, molecular biology, biotechnology, and pharmacology. Such interdisciplinary efforts are indispensable to convert ecological visions into pioneering antimicrobial solutions. This review aims to highlight the economic burden of antibiotic resistance, evaluate various microalgal species, their ecological roles, mechanisms of action, their ability to produce different therapeutic compounds, and the challenges related to their cultivation and therapeutic use.
Language: English
Subfield: Aquatic Science
Domain: Life Sciences
Open Access status: green
OpenAlex ID: W7151682664