Abstract

Cyanobacteria are a rich source of secondary metabolites with a vast biotechnological potential. These compounds have intrigued the scientific community due their uniqueness and diversity, which is guaranteed by a rich enzymatic apparatus. The ribosomally synthesized and post-translationally modified peptides (RiPPs) are among the most promising metabolite groups derived from cyanobacteria. They are interested in numerous biological and ecological processes, many of which are entirely unknown. Microviridins are among the most recognized class of ribosomal peptides formed by cyanobacteria. These oligopeptides are potent inhibitors of protease; thus, they can be used for drug development and the control of mosquitoes. They also play a key ecological role in the defense of cyanobacteria against microcrustaceans. The purpose of this review is to systematically identify the key characteristics of microviridins, including its chemical structure and biosynthesis, as well as its biotechnological and ecological significance.

Highlights

  • Cyanobacteria are among the first living beings to exist on Earth

  • The various structural shapes encountered in these species are the result of their ability to alter their morphology according to the environment allowing for higher energy accumulation and growth [3,4]

  • Microviridins are one of the most known and largest oligopeptides formed by cyanobacteria

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Summary

Introduction

The oldest fossil cyanobacteria registries date back 3.8 billion years ago Their presence was crucial to the creation of an aerobic atmosphere, resulting in the emergence of an enormous species variety [1]. They are defined as prokaryotic oxygen photosynthetic microorganisms and are mainly known for their ability to synthesize structurally diverse and biologically active natural products [2]. The various structural shapes encountered in these species are the result of their ability to alter their morphology according to the environment allowing for higher energy accumulation and growth [3,4] These microorganisms are at mercy of various stress situations found in diverse types of environments, including water-based and land-based. We present a review of the microviridins produced by cyanobacteria and their biotechnological and ecological relevance

Microviridin
Occurrence
Microviridin Ecology
Regulation
Application of Microviridins
Findings
Final Considerations
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