Chapter 3 - Implications of bioprospecting marine diversity and sustainable production of bioactive compounds

Abstract

The marine ecosystem is an untapped reservoir of biologically active compounds with significant potential and is an important source of health supplements, nutraceuticals, and functional foods. This chapter discusses the various bioactive compounds and secondary metabolites derived from marine species such as tunicates, sponges, mollusks, bryozoans, sea slugs, and related microorganisms that represent a significant portion of the world’s biota. An insight has been presented into these bioactive compounds and their applicability, owing to their antibiotic, antiparasitic, antiviral, antiinflammatory, antifibrotic, and anticancer properties. Owing to their ability to function at extremes of temperature, pressure, and pH, enzymes and bioactive compounds isolated from marine species can offer significant advantages over conventional enzymes. Additionally, an analysis is provided for several products that have been introduced to the market owing to innovative technologies, which help to harness the vast potential of the marine environment while protecting its vulnerable resources. Further, critical insight is provided into the advances in biotechnology approaches to discover and synthesize novel compounds with the intent of enhancing the availability and chemical diversity of beneficial marine constituents. An overview of similar developments, functional research areas, and potential challenges for production are discussed, along with the role of biochemical processes and genetics, to improve product formation yields and development.