Mitchell Henry Wright*
Centre for Planetary Health and Food Security, Nathan Campus, Griffith University, Nathan, AUSTRALIA.
DOI:10.5530/pc.2024.1.6
ABSTRACT
A recent study in Molecules comprehensively reviews cyanobacterial chemistry and the compounds that have antibacterial activity.1 This paper addresses a significant gap in current antimicrobial research by shedding light on the relatively underexplored potential of cyanobacterial compounds as sources of novel antibiotics. In a time when the rise of drug-resistant pathogens presents a significant global health challenge,2 this paper highlights the importance of diversifying the sources of antimicrobial agents, offering fresh perspectives and potential solutions. The authors emphasize the need for further investigation, and encourage continued exploration and highlight priority areas in this promising area of study. This study It not only reviews the known phytochemistry of cyanobacteria, but also provides a thorough evaluation of the effectiveness of these compounds against various types of pathogens, including bacteria, fungi, protozoa, and viruses, thereby broadening the scope of potential applications for cyanobacterial-derived compounds and showcasing their versatility. Furthermore, the emphasis on the safety of these compounds and their potential for drug development is a significant contribution to the field, as it hints at the possibility of developing novel, low-toxicity antimicrobial agents. Overall, this paper is a valuable resource that not only consolidates existing knowledge but also serves as a catalyst for future research in the field of antimicrobial therapies, offering a promising avenue for the discovery of new and effective drugs in the fight against drug-resistant pathogens.