First total synthesis of the marine steroid alkaloid plakinamine B

Cortistatin and plakinamine steroidal alkaloids from the marine sponges of the genus Corticium: insights into their chemistry, pharmacology, pharmacokinetics and structure activity relationships (SARs)

Cortistatins and plakinamines represent a unique class of marine-derived steroidal alkaloids, renowned for their structural diversity and potent pharmacological activities. This review provides a comprehensive overview of their chemical characteristics, pharmacological profiles, pharmacokinetics, and drug-likeness properties, with a particular focus on structure-activity relationships (SARs). Indeed, we explored their distinct molecular architectures and classification within the broader family of marine alkaloids, highlighting key subclasses and derivatives identified through advanced analytical techniques. Their broad-spectrum bioactivities, including anticancer, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and antiviral effects, are discussed in detail, supported by insights into SARs and pharmacophore identification that illuminate the molecular basis of their bioactivity. Additionally, we evaluate their pharmacokinetic attributes, including absorption, distribution, metabolism, and elimination (ADME), alongside their compliance with drug-likeness criteria, offering a holistic perspective on their potential for drug development.

Marine natural products

This review covers the literature published in 2014 for marine natural products (MNPs), with 1116 citations (753 for the period January to December 2014) referring to compounds isolated from marine microorganisms and phytoplankton, green, brown and red algae, sponges, cnidarians, bryozoans, molluscs, tunicates, echinoderms, mangroves and other intertidal plants and microorganisms. The emphasis is on new compounds (1378 in 456 papers for 2014), together with the relevant biological activities, source organisms and country of origin. Reviews, biosynthetic studies, first syntheses, and syntheses that lead to the revision of structures or stereochemistries, have been included.