Marine Bioactive Peptides in cancer treatment

Abstract

Marine bioactive peptides (MBPs) are secondary metabolites, which are natural compounds isolated from several species such as sponges, tunicates, mollusks, fungi, algae, and cyanobacteria. MBPs represent a novel source in the field of cancer drug discovery since they contain important pharmaceutical properties and an impressive structural diversity. Their anticancer mechanisms are mediated through multiple mechanisms, including induction of apoptosis and cell cycle arrest, inhibition of angiogenesis, metastatic suppression by modulation of different oncogenic proteins, disruption of cytoskeletal organizations, and interference activity to some signaling pathways. Notable examples include Dola statin 10, Didemnin B, Plitidepsin, Kahalalide F, Jaspa ide, Homothymine, and Larrazolo, which have progressed to clinical trials. The antibody–drug conjugate technology enabled derivatives such as Adcetris® to be feasible for the clinical research. However, the major challenges, like oral bioavailability, enzymatic stability, and toxicity, still exist. Current research is focusing on structural modification, targeted delivery systems, and nanotechnology-based formulations to address these limitations. Collectively, MBPs hold enormous promise for being lead compounds in designing new generations of anticancer therapeutics that define the maritime environment as a crucial frontier in oncology drug discovery.