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Functional Evaluation of Bioactive Compounds from Natural Sources, 2nd Edition

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A special issue of Molecules (ISSN 1420-3049). This special issue belongs to the section "Natural Products Chemistry".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: 16 August 2026 | Viewed by 26220

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Special Issue Editors

Dr. Kuniyoshi Shimizu

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Faculty of Agriculture, Kyushu University, Fukuoka, Japan
Interests: natural medicines; natural cosmetics; natural functional foods; natural aroma; natural dwelling space
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals

Dr. Yhiya Amen

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Guest Editor Assistant

Faculty of Pharmacy, Mansoura University, Mansoura, Egypt
Interests: natural products chemistry; ethnopharmacology; functional foods; medicinal mushrooms; evidence-based herbal medicines
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

The Special Issue offers a platform for researchers to share cutting-edge studies and advancements in evaluating the functional properties of bioactive compounds sourced from nature.

This collection of articles likely includes research on the identification, isolation, characterization, and assessment of bioactive compounds from various natural sources such as plants, marine organisms, fungi, and microorganisms. Researchers might explore the bioavailability, bioactivity, mechanisms of action, and potential health-promoting effects of these compounds.

Moreover, this Special Issue could cover a wide range of topics, including, but not limited to, the following:

Bioassays and in vitro/in vivo studies: investigations into the biological activities of natural compounds through cell-based assays or animal models.
Pharmacokinetics and metabolism: studies focusing on the absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion of bioactive compounds in living organisms.
Synergistic effects and formulation: research on the interactions between different bioactive compounds or the development of novel formulations to enhance bioavailability and efficacy.
Therapeutic applications: exploration of the potential therapeutic uses of bioactive compounds in treating various diseases or conditions.
Safety and toxicology: assessments of the safety profile and potential toxic effects of bioactive compounds.

Overall, this Special Issue aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the current research landscape regarding bioactive compounds from natural sources, offering insights into their functional properties and potential applications in improving human health and well-being.

Dr. Kuniyoshi Shimizu
Guest Editor

Dr. Yhiya Amen
Guest Editor Assistant

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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. Molecules is an international peer-reviewed open access semimonthly 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 2700 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

bioactive compounds
natural sources
functional evaluation
biological activities
health benefits
mechanisms of action
bioactivity
phytochemicals

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Related Special Issue

Functional Evaluation of Bioactive Compounds from Natural Sources in Molecules (11 articles)

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Research

Jump to: Review

24 pages, 3028 KB

Open AccessArticle

Polyphenol-Rich Extract from Archidendron clypearia: Optimization, Characterization, and Hypouricemic Activity

by Danna Yan, Ziyan Hong, Zhimin Zhao, Wenzhe Yang and Depo Yang

Molecules 2026, 31(9), 1451; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules31091451 - 27 Apr 2026

Abstract

This study aimed to optimize the ultrasonic-assisted extraction of polyphenols from Archidendron clypearia and to evaluate their anti-hyperuricemic effects. Polyphenols from medicinal plants have attracted increasing attention due to their potential roles in regulating uric acid metabolism. In this study, single-factor experiments combined with Box–Behnken response surface methodology were employed to optimize extraction conditions, and an entropy weighting method was applied to integrate total polyphenols and Archidendrin I into a comprehensive evaluation index. The bioactivity of the obtained extract was further assessed through in vitro assays and a hyperuricemic mouse model. The optimal extraction conditions were determined to be 50% ethanol, a liquid-to-material ratio of 30, and 31 min of sonication, yielding 175 mg GAE/g DW of total polyphenols and 80.34 mg/g DW of Archidendrin I. The extract exhibited significant xanthine oxidase inhibitory activity, reduced serum uric acid levels, regulated urate transporters (URAT1, GLUT9, and ABCG2), and alleviated renal and hepatic injury in hyperuricemic mice. These findings indicate that the optimized process enables efficient extraction of polyphenols from Archidendron clypearia, and the resulting extract exerts beneficial regulatory effects on uric acid metabolism, highlighting its potential as a natural agent for hyperuricemia management. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Functional Evaluation of Bioactive Compounds from Natural Sources, 2nd Edition)

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21 pages, 6031 KB

Open AccessArticle

Erica spiculifolia Extract Potentiates Cisplatin Cytotoxicity by Reactivating p53 and Caspase-3-Dependent Apoptosis in Colorectal Carcinoma

by Rositsa Mihaylova, Nikolay Bebrivenski, Dimitrina Zheleva-Dimitrova, Rumyana Simeonova, Vesela Lozanova, Ralitza Alexova, Vanyo Mitev, Reneta Gevrenova and Georgi Momekov

Molecules 2026, 31(4), 710; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules31040710 - 18 Feb 2026

Viewed by 464

Abstract

Resistance to apoptosis represents a major limitation of platinum-based chemotherapy in colorectal carcinoma, frequently arising from impaired p53 signaling and inefficient execution of programmed cell death. In this study, we investigated the anticancer activity of Erica spiculifolia extract (ESE) and its ability to synergistically enhance cisplatin cytotoxicity in HT-29 colorectal carcinoma cells. Cell viability was assessed using the MTT assay, followed by formal combination analysis based on the Chou–Talalay methodology. Combination experiments employed a non-constant ratio regimen in which a fixed ESE concentration (45 µg/mL) was combined with serial cisplatin dilutions (45.0–2.8 µg/mL) to define interaction behavior across multiple effect levels. Quantitative analysis revealed a strong superadditive effect, with Combination Index values well below 1 and markedly elevated Dose Reduction Indices for cisplatin, indicating substantial dose-sparing across effect levels. To elucidate the molecular basis of this synergism, apoptosis-related protein expression was profiled using a membrane-based immunoassay. Combined ESE and cisplatin treatment induced full-scale p53 reactivation, including restoration of phosphorylated p53 isoforms associated with DNA damage-dependent apoptotic signaling. Acridine orange/propidium iodide staining confirmed a pronounced increase in early and late apoptotic/necrotic cells following combination treatment. UHPLC-HRMS analysis identified kaempferol 3-O-glucoside (8830.19 ± 11.01 ng/mg dw) and myricitrin (3074 ± 3.12 ng/mg) as predominant flavonols, followed by naringenin 7-O-glucoside (5958.96 ± 9.98 ng/mg), while chlorogenic, cinnamic, quinic, and gallic acids were the main phenolic acids detected. These constituents may contribute to HT-29 cell sensitization to cisplatin. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Functional Evaluation of Bioactive Compounds from Natural Sources, 2nd Edition)

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15 pages, 1191 KB

Open AccessArticle

Protective Effects of Neutral Lipids from Phaeodactylum tricornutum on Palmitate-Induced Lipid Accumulation in HepG2 Cells: An In Vitro Model of Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease

by Marion Peyras, Rose-Marie Orhant, Giuliana Parisi, Cecilia Faraloni, Graziella Chini Zittelli, Vincent Blanckaert and Virginie Mimouni

Molecules 2026, 31(2), 323; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules31020323 - 17 Jan 2026

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 724

Abstract

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), often associated with obesity, has become a serious public health matter. NAFLD is characterized by an excessive lipid accumulation in hepatocytes, mainly stored as triglycerides. The marine microalga Phaeodactylum tricornutum is well known for its richness of bioactive compounds, particularly lipids. Therefore, different natural lipid extracts from P. tricornutum are deciphered to jugulate or prevent obesity leading to NAFLD. In this study, the main focus was on the effects of purified neutral and polar lipid extracts from P. tricornutum in a cellular model of NAFLD. Human HepG2 cells were used and exposed for 24 h to 250 μM palmitate to induce NAFLD with or without microalgal lipid extracts. Data showed that neutral lipid extract presented lower viability and cytotoxic activities on HepG2 at 75 µg/mL. The impact on apoptosis was around 5% and below the threshold. Nevertheless, the use of neutral lipid at 50 µg/mL induced a decrease in the number and size of lipid droplets, and so, preventing NAFLD. On the contrary, the polar lipid extract had no effect on the accumulation of triglycerides in HepG2 cells. To conclude, neutral lipid extract seemed to be a good candidate to prevent NAFLD. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Functional Evaluation of Bioactive Compounds from Natural Sources, 2nd Edition)

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15 pages, 1638 KB

Open AccessArticle

Screening of Bioactive Microalgae from Freshwaters, Collected in Hue, Vietnam: Cytotoxic Constituents from Dolichospermum smithii HU04

by Nguyen Thi Minh Hang, Nguyen Thi Thu Ha, Hoang Duc Manh, Duong Thi Thuy, Hoang Thi Quynh, Nguyen Thi Thu Lien, Nguyen Thi Tu Oanh, Tran Huu Giap, Buu Huu Tai, Doan Thi Mai Huong, Ngo Quoc Anh and Nguyen Xuan Nhiem

Molecules 2026, 31(1), 165; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules31010165 - 1 Jan 2026

Viewed by 641

Abstract

Background/Objectives: Microalgae are recognized as prolific producers of bioactive metabolites with pharmaceutical potential. This study aimed to isolate and characterize cytotoxic constituents from selected cytotoxic microalgae, collected in Hue city, Vietnam. Methods: Microalgal samples were collected from freshwater bodies, morphologically identified, and maintained in laboratory culture. Thirteen strains were successfully isolated and cultivated in BG11, Z8, and BBM media to determine optimal growth conditions. Cytotoxic effects of extracts/compounds were determined using the sulforhodamine B assay on human lung cancer (SK-LU-1) and human liver cancer (HepG2) cell lines. The methanol extract was partitioned with n-hexane and CH₂Cl₂, followed by extensive chromatographic separation and HPLC purification to afford twelve compounds, including two new and ten known compounds. The structures were elucidated by HR-ESI-MS and NMR spectra, chemical methods, and comparing compounds in the literature. Results: From the phytoplankton samples collected across six freshwater bodies in Hue city, Vietnam, thirteen microalgal strains were successfully isolated and purified under laboratory conditions. These strains were morphologically and taxonomically identified to be Microcystis aeruginosa HU05, Microcystis viridis HU13, Anabaena circinalis HU08, Aphanizomenon flos-aquae HU02, Dolichospermum smithii HU04, Calothrix braunii HU14, Nostoc muscorum HU12, Nostoc punctiforme HU11, Raphidiopsis raciborskii HU03, Lyngbya spiralis HU15, Planktothrix stagnina HU16, Phormidium subtilis HU06, and Scenedesmus quadricauda HU07. All methanol extracts of those microalgae were evaluated for cytotoxic activity. The MeOH extracts of M. viridis (HU13) and D. smithii (HU04) exhibited significant cytotoxic effects, with IC₅₀ values of 6.19 ± 0.80 and 4.89 ± 0.76 µg/mL for M. viridis, and 9.51 ± 0.84 and 8.32 ± 0.94 µg/mL for D. smithii against SK-LU-1 and HepG2 cell lines, respectively. Furthermore, chemical studies of D. smithii HU04 led to the isolation of two new compounds, smithioside A (1) and smithioside B (2) and ten known ones, 3,4,5-trimethoxyphenyl-1-O-β-D-glucopyranoside (3), 4′-hydroxy-3′-methoxyphenol-β-D-[6-O-(4″-hydroxy-3″,5″-dimethoxylbenzoate)]-glucopyranoside (4), 4′-hydroxy-2′,6′-dimethoxyphenol 1-O-β-D-(6-O-syringoyl)glucopyranoside (5), mallophenol B (6), pisoninol II (7), guaiacylglycerol (8), (E)-asarone (9), deacetylsarmentamide B (10), (E)-2-hexenyl-β-D-glucopyranoside (11), and 5,6-dihydropyridin-2(1H)-one (12). The cytotoxic activity of all isolated compounds was also evaluated against SK-LU-1 and HepG2 cancer cell lines. Compound 12 showed the strongest activity, with IC₅₀ values of 9.13 ± 0.89 µM (SK-LU-1) and 7.64 ± 0.46 µM (HepG2). Compounds 5 and 6 exhibited moderate cytotoxic activity on both human cancer cell lines with IC₅₀ values ranging from 25.99 to 51.47 µM. Conclusions: These results highlight the potential of Dolichospermum smithii HU04 as a source of bioactive compounds, particularly in anticancer applications. These findings suggest that D. smithii HU04 extracts could be developed for therapeutic purposes targeting cancer. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Functional Evaluation of Bioactive Compounds from Natural Sources, 2nd Edition)

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16 pages, 1373 KB

Open AccessArticle

Alteration of m⁶A Methylation in Breast Cancer Cells by Kalanchoe pinnata Aqueous Extract

by Carlos Rogelio Alvizo-Rodríguez, Fernando Calzada, Uriel López-Vázquez, Emmanuel Tomay Tiburcio, Juan A. Hernandez-Rivera, Alan Carrasco-Carballo and Marta Elena Hernández-Caballero

Molecules 2025, 30(12), 2634; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules30122634 - 18 Jun 2025

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 3952

Abstract

Kalanchoe pinnata is used in traditional medicine to treat cancer, as it contains flavonoids and phenols known to regulate key cellular processes associated with cancer. Breast cancer, the most common cancer among women globally, presents ongoing challenges in treatment. The discovery of m⁶A methylation and its regulation by methylosome proteins offers novel therapeutic avenues for cancer management. This study aimed to investigate the cytotoxic and epitranscriptomic effects of an aqueous extract from K. pinnata on MCF-7 (luminal A) and HCC1937 (triple-negative) breast cancer cells. Cell lines were treated with the aqueous K. pinnata extract, characterized by HPLC, for 72 h, followed by an assessment of cytotoxicity and migration. The expression of methylosome components METTL3 and FTO was measured using RT-PCR. m⁶A global methylation was assessed via colorimetry, and molecular docking studies were conducted. The results indicated that only HCC1937 cells exhibited altered migration capacity. This change was correlated in silico with the inhibition of METTL3 by luteolin and quercetin, constituents of the aqueous extract. METTL3, a methyltransferase, was overexpressed by scratch stimuli but was downregulated following K. pinnata treatment in both MCF-7 and HCC1937 cells. The FTO demethylase was overexpressed in both cell lines. In silico analysis suggested an interaction between FTO and compounds such as gallic acid and myricetin. Additionally, m⁶A global methylation decreased in MCF-7 cells but increased in HCC1937 cells, potentially affecting cell migration. Our findings indicate that K. pinnata influences both METTL3 and FTO, altering m⁶A methylation in a cell-type-dependent manner, with HCC1937 cells being particularly sensitive. Further research is required to elucidate the complete molecular mechanism of K. pinnata’s aqueous extract in breast cancer treatment. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Functional Evaluation of Bioactive Compounds from Natural Sources, 2nd Edition)

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33 pages, 6958 KB

Open AccessArticle

Development of Fucoxanthin-Enriched Yogurt Using Nanoliposomal Carriers: A Strategy for Functional Dairy Products with Antioxidant and Erythroprotective Benefits

by Miguel Ángel Robles-García, Carmen Lizette Del-Toro-Sánchez, Germán Limón-Vargas, Melesio Gutiérrez-Lomelí, María Guadalupe Avila-Novoa, Fridha Viridiana Villalpando-Vargas, Brenda Vega-Ruiz, Ariadna Thalía Bernal-Mercado, Rey David Iturralde-García, Abril Ivett Priscilla Gómez-Guzman, Ernesto Ramírez-Briones, Reyna Guadalupe López-Berrellez and Ricardo Iván González-Vega

Molecules 2025, 30(8), 1854; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules30081854 - 21 Apr 2025

Cited by 6 | Viewed by 2455

Abstract

In pursuing functional foods that promote health, nanoliposomal carriers have been used to enhance the stability and functionality of dairy products such as yogurt, promising therapeutic benefits. This study aimed to evaluate the impact of fucoxanthin-loaded nanoliposomes in yogurt on its antioxidant, physicochemical, and rheological properties under cold storage (21 days). Fucoxanthin-loaded nanoliposomes were prepared using the ultrasonic film dispersion technique and added at concentrations of 0%, 5%, and 10% in the yogurt (Y-C, Y-FXN-5, Y-FXN-10). Homogeneous and uniform nanoliposomes (98.28 nm) were obtained, preserving their integrity and functionality and ensuring the prolonged release and bioavailability of fucoxanthin. Y-FXN-10 maintained the highest antioxidant activity according to the DPPH (52.96%), ABTS (97.97%), and FRAP (3.16 mmol ET/g) methods. This formulation exhibited enhanced erythroprotective potential, inhibiting hemolysis, photohemolysis, and heat-induced hemolysis. However, viscosity and firmness decreased, affecting the texture and appearance. Sensory properties such as the color, flavor, aftertaste, texture, and overall acceptance improved with the 10% fucoxanthin-enriched yogurt formulation. These results suggest that nanoliposomes are suitable for carrying fucoxanthin. Their incorporation into food matrices is critical to developing functional foods. Regulatory approvals and consumer perceptions regarding nanotechnology-based products must be addressed, emphasizing their safety and health benefits. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Functional Evaluation of Bioactive Compounds from Natural Sources, 2nd Edition)

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18 pages, 5939 KB

Open AccessArticle

Peperomia campylotropa A.W. Hill: Ethnobotanical, Phytochemical, and Metabolomic Profile Related to Its Gastroprotective Activity

by Yazmín K. Márquez-Flores, Jesús Ayala-Velasco, José Correa-Basurto, Alan Estrada-Pérez and M. Estela Meléndez-Camargo

Molecules 2025, 30(4), 772; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules30040772 - 7 Feb 2025

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1468

Abstract

Peperomia campylotropa (Piperaceae) is a species with a traditional Mexican gastroprotective use that has never-before been studied using metabolomics. This study explores the ethnobotanical use of the species, aiming to define the gastroprotective effect of the aqueous extract and characterize its secondary metabolites by UHPLC–MS analysis. To validate its use, we botanically identified the species re-collected in the Municipality of Buenavista de Cuéllar, Guerrero, Mexico. We conducted interviews to provide evidence of the traditional details of its consumption and knowledge. Subsequently, qualitative phytochemical tests were performed to elucidate the possible secondary metabolites, which were also characterized under UHPLC–MS analysis and analyzed according to their primary type and retention times. Indomethacin (IND)- and ethanol (EtOH)-induced gastric damage models in Wistar rats were used for pharmacological evaluation, considering the ulceration index and gastroprotection percentage. Along with the participation in the mechanism of action of nitric oxide (NO), sulfhydryl (-SH) groups and prostaglandins (PG) were elucidated by Wistar rats pretreated with N(ω)-nitro-L-arginine methyl ester (L-NAME), N-Ethylmaleimide (NEM), and IND, respectively. Acute intragastric toxicity was also estimated in NIH female mice. Ninety people were interviewed, revealing the traditional knowledge of P. campylotropa as food and medicine for stomach diseases, including irritation and indigestion. The presence of phenolic compounds (48%), N-containing compounds (22%), glycosides (21%), terpenoids (7%), and lactones (4%) were verified by preliminary phytochemical analysis and by UHPLC–MS in which 162 secondary metabolites were characterized. Besides that, the aqueous extract at 62.5, 125, and 250 mg/kg of body weight (b.w.) decreased the ulcerative index, showing gastroprotection percentages between 60 and 80%, similar to that of omeprazole. Furthermore, -SH group participation in its activity was established. All this evidence supports the gastroprotective activity of P. campylotropa for the first time and contributes to understanding its secondary metabolite content. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Functional Evaluation of Bioactive Compounds from Natural Sources, 2nd Edition)

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Review

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28 pages, 2898 KB

Open AccessReview

Chemical Composition and Biological Activities of Pelargonium sp.: A Review with In Silico Insights into Potential Anti-Inflammatory Mechanism

by Diana Celi, Karina Jimenes-Vargas, António Machado, José Miguel Álvarez-Suárez and Eduardo Tejera

Molecules 2025, 30(15), 3198; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules30153198 - 30 Jul 2025

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2144

Abstract

The Pelargonium genus, encompassing over 280 species, remains markedly underexplored despite extensive traditional use for respiratory, gastrointestinal, and dermatological disorders. This review of aqueous, alcoholic, and hydroalcoholic extracts reveals critical research gaps: only 10 species have undergone chemical characterization, while 17 have been evaluated for biological activities. Phytochemical analysis identified 252 unique molecules across all studies, with flavonoids emerging as the predominant class (n = 108). Glycosylated derivatives demonstrated superior bioactivity profiles compared to non-glycosylated analogs. Phenolic acids (n = 43) and coumarins (n = 31) represented additional major classes. Experimental studies primarily documented antioxidant, antibacterial, and anti-inflammatory effects, with emerging evidence for antidiabetic, anticancer, and hepatoprotective activities. However, methodological heterogeneity across studies limits comparative analysis and comprehensive understanding. In silico target prediction analysis was performed on 197 high-confidence molecular structures. Glycosylated flavonols, anthocyanidins, flavones, and coumarins showed strong predicted interactions with key inflammatory targets (ALOX15, ALOX5, PTGER4, and NOS2) and metabolic regulators (GSK3A and PI4KB), providing mechanistic support for observed therapeutic effects and suggesting potential applications in chronic inflammatory and metabolic diseases. These findings underscore the substantial therapeutic potential of underexplored Pelargonium species and advocate for systematic research employing untargeted metabolomics, standardized bioassays, and compound-specific mechanistic validation to fully unlock the pharmacological potential of this diverse genus. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Functional Evaluation of Bioactive Compounds from Natural Sources, 2nd Edition)

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26 pages, 991 KB

Open AccessReview

Lactoferrin—A Regulator of Iron Homeostasis and Its Implications in Cancer

by Izabela Bolesławska, Natasza Bolesławska-Król, Karol Jakubowski, Juliusz Przysławski and Sławomira Drzymała-Czyż

Molecules 2025, 30(7), 1507; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules30071507 - 28 Mar 2025

Cited by 11 | Viewed by 8778

Abstract

Cancer is a global health challenge, and its development is closely linked to iron metabolism. Cancer cells have an increased demand for this element, which promotes their proliferation, invasion, and metastasis. Excess iron catalyzes the formation of reactive oxygen species (ROS), which can both induce ferroptosis and initiate oncogenic signaling pathways. The deregulation of iron metabolism in cancer patients leads to anemia or toxic iron overload and also affects the gut microbiota. Lactoferrin (LF), a glycoprotein with strong iron chelating properties, can regulate its availability to cancer cells, thereby limiting their growth and progression. By chelating free Fe ions, LF reduces oxidative stress and inhibits the mechanisms that promote carcinogenesis. Additionally, it exhibits immunomodulatory and anti-inflammatory effects and may enhance the body’s anti-tumor response. This review analyses the mechanisms of action of lactoferrin in the context of cancer, with a particular focus on its chelating, antioxidant, and immunomodulatory properties. The multidirectional effects of LF make it a promising component of preventive and therapeutic strategies, requiring further clinical studies. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Functional Evaluation of Bioactive Compounds from Natural Sources, 2nd Edition)

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30 pages, 10674 KB

Open AccessReview

Recent Updates on Terpenoids and Other Bioactive Constituents of Marine Sponges

by Maggie J. F. Raymond and Harinantenaina L. Rakotondraibe

Molecules 2025, 30(5), 1112; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules30051112 - 28 Feb 2025

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 3941

Abstract

Marine sponges are a promising source of bioactive secondary metabolites, contributing hundreds of novel compounds per year to natural product research, each with diverse chemical and biological properties. We have chosen to highlight marine natural products that exhibited unique structural features and/or significant bioactivity. The most common report of pharmacological significance was cytotoxicity, with antimicrobial and enzyme inhibition activities following, and mentions of other attributes, such as anti-inflammation, neuroprotection, and anti-biofilm. This review describes newly isolated constituents from sponges between 2020 and 2023 alongside their relevant pharmacological activity. The isolation, structures, and biological properties of 218 unique secondary metabolites from various chemical families, including terpenoids, peptides, and alkaloids from marine sponges, are covered. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Functional Evaluation of Bioactive Compounds from Natural Sources, 2nd Edition)

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