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Marine Drugs
Special Issues
Marine Drug Research in Korea II
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Marine Drug Research in Korea II

A special issue of Marine Drugs (ISSN 1660-3397).

Deadline for manuscript submissions: closed (30 June 2024) | Viewed by 15735

Special Issue Editor

Prof. Dr. Jung-Rae Rho

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
Department of Oceanography, Kunsan National University, Jeonbuk 54150, Republic of Korea
Interests: marine bioactive compounds; organic structure determination; metabolites isolation; microalgae mass cultivation

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

Korea is a peninsula surrounded by three seas and possessing numerous islands. This includes Jeju Island, which is known for its rich marine diversity. Koreans have long utilized marine organisms as a food source. Since the 1990s, research into high-value materials from marine origin has been initiated by the Korean Ocean Research Institute. Since then, many studies on marine-derived bioactive compounds and various biological activities have been actively conducted at universities. Recently, the government has recognized the potential for marine biotechnology related to marine medicines and established new national research institutes to systematically manage and develop marine organisms inhabiting Korean coastal areas.

Following the first Special Issue on this field, entitled “Marine Drug Research in Korea” (2021), this Issue also aims to feature compounds isolated from various marine organisms and outline their biological activity. We therefore welcome papers on the isolation, structure elucidation, synthesis, and biological activity and action mechanism evaluation of compounds of marine macro-/microorganisms.

Prof. Dr. Jung-Rae Rho
Guest Editor

Manuscript Submission Information

Manuscripts should be submitted online at www.mdpi.com by registering and logging in to this website. Once you are registered, click here to go to the submission form. Manuscripts can be submitted until the deadline. All submissions that pass pre-check are peer-reviewed. Accepted papers will be published continuously in the journal (as soon as accepted) and will be listed together on the special issue website. Research articles, review articles as well as short communications are invited. For planned papers, a title and short abstract (about 100 words) can be sent to the Editorial Office for announcement on this website.

Submitted manuscripts should not have been published previously, nor be under consideration for publication elsewhere (except conference proceedings papers). All manuscripts are thoroughly refereed through a single-blind peer-review process. A guide for authors and other relevant information for submission of manuscripts is available on the Instructions for Authors page. Marine Drugs is an international peer-reviewed open access monthly journal published by MDPI.

Please visit the Instructions for Authors page before submitting a manuscript. The Article Processing Charge (APC) for publication in this open access journal is 2900 CHF (Swiss Francs). Submitted papers should be well formatted and use good English. Authors may use MDPI's English editing service prior to publication or during author revisions.

Keywords

  • marine natural products
  • structure determination
  • biological activity
  • marine organisms
  • organic synthesis

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Related Special Issue

Published Papers (7 papers)

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Research

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15 pages, 5323 KiB  
Article
Immunostimulatory Effects of Korean Mineral-Rich Seawaters on Cyclophosphamide-Induced Immunosuppression in Mice
by Choong-Gon Kim, Jae Ho Choi, Sae-Kwang Ku and Chang-Hyun Song
Mar. Drugs 2024, 22(6), 234; https://doi.org/10.3390/md22060234 - 21 May 2024
Viewed by 1196
Abstract
Deep seawater (DS), obtained from a depth over 200 m, has health benefits due to its rich nutrients and minerals, and intake of DS has shown diverse immunomodulatory effects in allergies and cancer. Therefore, the immunostimulatory effects of Korean mineral-rich seawaters were examined [...] Read more.
Deep seawater (DS), obtained from a depth over 200 m, has health benefits due to its rich nutrients and minerals, and intake of DS has shown diverse immunomodulatory effects in allergies and cancer. Therefore, the immunostimulatory effects of Korean mineral-rich seawaters were examined in a cyclophosphamide (CPA)-induced immunosuppression model. Three samples of Korean seawater, namely DS from the East Sea off the coasts of Pohang (PDS) and Uljin (UDS), and seawater from the West Sea off the coast of Boryeong (BS), were collected. The seawaters were abundant in several minerals (calcium, iron, zinc, selenium, etc.). Mice were orally administered the seawaters for 42 days, followed by CPA-induced immunosuppression. The CPA induction reduced the weight of the spleen and lymph nodes; however, the administration of seawaters increased the weight of the lymphoid organs, accompanied by stimulation of natural killer cells’ activity and NF-kB-mediated cytokine production (IFNγ, TNFα, IL1β, IL6, and IL12). The mouse-derived splenocytes showed lymphoproliferation without cytotoxicity in the seawater groups. Histopathological analysis revealed that the seawaters improved the CPA-induced atrophic changes by promoting lymphoproliferation in the spleen and lymph nodes. These results provide useful information for the use of Korean mineral-rich seawaters, particularly PDS and UDS, as alternative immunostimulants under immunosuppressive conditions. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Marine Drug Research in Korea II)
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15 pages, 4453 KiB  
Article
Induction of Autophagy by Extract from Corydalis heterocarpa for Skin Anti-Aging
by Kyeong Eun Yang, Soo-Bin Nam, Ga-Eun Lee, Gabsik Yang, Mee-Hyun Lee, Geul Bang, Jung Hoon Choi, Yong-Yeon Cho and Cheol-Jung Lee
Mar. Drugs 2024, 22(3), 127; https://doi.org/10.3390/md22030127 - 8 Mar 2024
Viewed by 2330
Abstract
The extracts of Corydalis heterocarpa, a salt-tolerant plant, exhibit diverse physiological properties, including anti-inflammatory, anticancer, and antiadipogenic effects. However, the anti-aging effects of C. heterocarpa extract (CHE) on human skin cells have not yet been investigated. In the present study, we determined [...] Read more.
The extracts of Corydalis heterocarpa, a salt-tolerant plant, exhibit diverse physiological properties, including anti-inflammatory, anticancer, and antiadipogenic effects. However, the anti-aging effects of C. heterocarpa extract (CHE) on human skin cells have not yet been investigated. In the present study, we determined that CHE inhibited senescence-associated β-galactosidase (SA-β-gal)-stained senescent human dermal fibroblasts (HDFs). Furthermore, CHE markedly suppressed the expression of major regulatory proteins involved in senescence, including p53, p21, and caveolin-1. Interestingly, CHE promoted autophagic flux, as confirmed by the formation of microtubule-associated protein 1 light chain 3B (LC3B) puncta and lysosomal activity. Notably, using RNA sequencing (RNA-seq), we showed that CHE selectively regulated the gene expression of leucine-rich repeat and sterile alpha motif-containing 1 (LRSAM1), an important regulator of autophagy. The adenosine-monophosphate activated protein kinase/mammalian target of rapamycin (AMPK/mTOR) pathway, which is essential for autophagy regulation, was also modulated by CHE. LRSAM1 depletion not only inhibited LC3B expression but also decreased the autophagy flux induced by CHE. Moreover, the knockdown of LRSAM1 suppressed the reversal of CHE-induced senescence in old HDFs. Collectively, our study has revealed the rejuvenating effects and molecular mechanisms of CHE, suggesting that CHE may be a promising anti-aging agent. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Marine Drug Research in Korea II)
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12 pages, 2328 KiB  
Article
Two New Components from an Association of Marine Sponges Poecillastra sp. and Jaspis sp. and Their Inhibitory Effects on Biomarkers for Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia
by Buyng Su Hwang, Sangbum Lee, Eun Ju Jeong and Jung-Rae Rho
Mar. Drugs 2023, 21(9), 491; https://doi.org/10.3390/md21090491 - 14 Sep 2023
Viewed by 1517
Abstract
Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), characterized by the enlargement of the prostate gland and subsequent lower urinary tract symptoms, poses a significant health concern for aging men with increasing prevalence. Extensive efforts encompassing in vitro and in vivo models are underway to identify novel [...] Read more.
Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), characterized by the enlargement of the prostate gland and subsequent lower urinary tract symptoms, poses a significant health concern for aging men with increasing prevalence. Extensive efforts encompassing in vitro and in vivo models are underway to identify novel and effective agents for the management and treatment of BPH. Research endeavors are primarily channeled toward assessing the potential of compounds to inhibit cell proliferation, curb inflammation, and display anti-androgenic activity. Notably, through screening aimed at inhibiting 5-alpha reductase type 2 (5αR2) in human prostatic cells, two acyl compounds (1 and 2) were isolated from a bioactive fraction sourced from an association of marine sponges Poecillastra sp. and Jaspis sp. The complete structure of 1 was determined as (Z)-dec-3-enony (2S, 3S)-capreomycidine, ascertained by JBCA and ECD comparison. While the absolute configurations of 2 remained unassigned, it was identified as a linkage of a 2, 7S*-dihydoxy-9R*-methyloctadecanoyl group with the 2-amino position of a tramiprosate moiety referred to as homotaurine. Evaluation of both compounds encompassed the assessment of their inhibitory effects on key biomarkers (5αR2, AR, PSA, and PCNA) associated with BPH in testosterone propionate (TP)-activated LNCap and RWPE-1 cells. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Marine Drug Research in Korea II)
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11 pages, 1719 KiB  
Article
Jejucarbosides B–E, Chlorinated Cycloaromatized Enediynes, from a Marine Streptomyces sp.
by Ji Hyeon Im, Yern-Hyerk Shin, Eun Seo Bae, Sang Kook Lee and Dong-Chan Oh
Mar. Drugs 2023, 21(7), 405; https://doi.org/10.3390/md21070405 - 18 Jul 2023
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1890
Abstract
Four new chlorinated cycloaromatized enediyne compounds, jejucarbosides B–E (1–4), were discovered together with previously-identified jejucarboside A from a marine actinomycete strain. Compounds 1–4 were identified as new chlorinated cyclopenta[a]indene glycosides based on 1D and 2D [...] Read more.
Four new chlorinated cycloaromatized enediyne compounds, jejucarbosides B–E (1–4), were discovered together with previously-identified jejucarboside A from a marine actinomycete strain. Compounds 1–4 were identified as new chlorinated cyclopenta[a]indene glycosides based on 1D and 2D nuclear magnetic resonance, high-resolution mass spectrometry, and circular dichroism (CD) spectra. Jejucarbosides B and E bear a carbonate functional group whereas jejucarbosides C and D are variants possessing 1,2-diol by losing the carbonate functionality. It is proposed that the production of 1–4 occurs via Bergman cycloaromatization capturing Cl- and H+ in the alternative positions of a p-benzyne intermediate derived from a 9-membered enediyne core. Jejucarboside E (4) displayed significant cytotoxicity against human cancer cell lines including SNU-638, SK-HEP-1, A549, HCT116, and MDA-MB-231, with IC50 values of 0.31, 0.40, 0.25, 0.29, and 0.48 μM, respectively, while jejucarbosides B–D (1–3) showed moderate or no cytotoxic effects. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Marine Drug Research in Korea II)
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12 pages, 2439 KiB  
Article
Antioxidant, Antiviral, and Anti-Inflammatory Activities of Lutein-Enriched Extract of Tetraselmis Species
by Eun-A Kim, Nalae Kang, Seong-Young Heo, Jae-Young Oh, Seung-Hong Lee, Seon-Heui Cha, Won-Keun Kim and Soo-Jin Heo
Mar. Drugs 2023, 21(7), 369; https://doi.org/10.3390/md21070369 - 21 Jun 2023
Cited by 17 | Viewed by 2943
Abstract
Microalgae are proposed to have powerful applications for human health in the pharmaceutical and food industries. Tetraselmis species (sp.), which are green microalgae, were identified as a source of broad-spectrum health-promoting biological activities. However, the bioactivity of these species has not been elucidated. [...] Read more.
Microalgae are proposed to have powerful applications for human health in the pharmaceutical and food industries. Tetraselmis species (sp.), which are green microalgae, were identified as a source of broad-spectrum health-promoting biological activities. However, the bioactivity of these species has not been elucidated. We aimed to confirm the antioxidant, antiviral, and anti-inflammatory effects of Tetraselmis sp. extract (TEE). TEE showed 2,2-diphenyl-1-picryl-hydrazyl-hydrate radical and hydrogen peroxide scavenging activities and reduced plaque formation in Vero E6 cells infected with vaccinia virus. TEE treatment also significantly inhibited nitric oxide (NO) production and improved cell viability in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced RAW264.7 cells. These anti-inflammatory effects were further analyzed in LPS-induced RAW 264.7 cells and the zebrafish model. Further, TEE reduced induced NO synthase expression and proinflammatory cytokine release, including tumor necrosis factor-α, interleukin-6, and interleukin-1β, through MAPKs and NF-κB-dependent mechanisms. Further analysis revealed that TEE increased the survival rate and reduced cell death and NO production in an LPS-stimulated zebrafish model. Further, high-performance liquid chromatography revealed a strong presence of the carotenoid lutein in TEE. Overall, the results suggest that lutein-enriched TEE may be a potent antioxidant, antiviral, and anti-inflammatory agent that could be sustainably utilized in industrial applications. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Marine Drug Research in Korea II)
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11 pages, 1223 KiB  
Article
Sesquiterpenes from Streptomyces qinglanensis and Their Cytotoxic Activity
by Cao Van Anh, Jong Soon Kang, Jeong-Wook Yang, Joo-Hee Kwon, Chang-Su Heo, Hwa-Sun Lee, Chan Hong Park and Hee Jae Shin
Mar. Drugs 2023, 21(6), 361; https://doi.org/10.3390/md21060361 - 16 Jun 2023
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1930
Abstract
Nine sesquiterpenes, including eight pentalenenes (1–8) and one bolinane derivative (9), were isolated from the culture broth of a marine-derived actinobacterium Streptomyces qinglanensis 213DD-006. Among them, 1, 4, 7, and 9 were new compounds. [...] Read more.
Nine sesquiterpenes, including eight pentalenenes (1–8) and one bolinane derivative (9), were isolated from the culture broth of a marine-derived actinobacterium Streptomyces qinglanensis 213DD-006. Among them, 1, 4, 7, and 9 were new compounds. Their planar structures were determined by spectroscopic methods (HRMS, 1D, and 2D NMR), and the absolute configuration was established by biosynthesis consideration and electronic-circular-dichroism (ECD) calculations. All the isolated compounds were screened for their cytotoxicity against six solid and seven blood cancer cell lines. Compounds 4–6 and 8 showed a moderate activity against all of the tested solid cell lines, with GI50 values ranging from 1.97 to 3.46 µM. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Marine Drug Research in Korea II)
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Review

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15 pages, 890 KiB  
Review
Sulfated Polysaccharides from Seaweeds: A Promising Strategy for Combatting Viral Diseases—A Review
by N. M. Liyanage, D. P. Nagahawatta, Thilina U. Jayawardena, Kalu Kapuge Asanka Sanjeewa, H. H. A. C. K. Jayawrdhana, Jae-Il Kim and You-Jin Jeon
Mar. Drugs 2023, 21(9), 461; https://doi.org/10.3390/md21090461 - 23 Aug 2023
Cited by 10 | Viewed by 3028
Abstract
The limited availability of treatments for many infectious diseases highlights the need for new treatments, particularly for viral infections. Natural compounds from seaweed are attracting increasing attention for the treatment of various viral diseases, and thousands of novel compounds have been isolated for [...] Read more.
The limited availability of treatments for many infectious diseases highlights the need for new treatments, particularly for viral infections. Natural compounds from seaweed are attracting increasing attention for the treatment of various viral diseases, and thousands of novel compounds have been isolated for the development of pharmaceutical products. Seaweed is a rich source of natural bioactive compounds, including polysaccharides. The discovery of algal polysaccharides with antiviral activity has significantly increased in the past few decades. Furthermore, unique polysaccharides isolated from seaweeds, such as carrageenan, alginates, fucoidans, galactans, laminarians, and ulvans, have been shown to act against viral infections. The antiviral mechanisms of these agents are based on their inhibition of DNA or RNA synthesis, viral entry, and viral replication. In this article, we review and provide an inclusive description of the antiviral activities of algal polysaccharides. Additionally, we discuss the challenges and opportunities for developing polysaccharide-based antiviral therapies, including issues related to drug delivery and formulation. Finally, this review highlights the need for further research for fully understanding the potential of seaweed polysaccharides as a source of antiviral agents and for developing effective treatments for viral diseases. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Marine Drug Research in Korea II)
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