Green genes from blue greens: challenges and solutions to unlocking the potential of cyanobacteria in drug discovery
Benjamin Philmus, Nicole E. Avalon, Yousong Ding, Drew T. Doering, Alessandra S. Eustáquio, William H. Gerwick, Hendrik Luesch, Jimmy Orjala, Shaz Sutherland, Arnaud Taton, Daniel Udwary
Abstract
Cyanobacteria are prolific producers of biologically active compounds that are important in influencing ecology, behavior of interacting organisms, and as leads in drug discovery efforts. Here we discuss the challenges faced by all natural product researchers, especially those that focus on cyanobacteria, and then describe progress that has been made in these areas. We also propose some solutions, paths forward, and thoughts for consideration on these challenges.
Topics & Concepts
CyanobacteriaDrug discoveryDrugComputational biologyBiologyBiotechnologyBiochemical engineeringBioinformaticsEngineeringBacteriaPharmacologyGeneticsAlgal biology and biofuel productionBiocrusts and Microbial EcologyAquatic Ecosystems and Phytoplankton Dynamics