PHARMACOLOGICAL POTENTIAL OF MARINE ORGANISMS
Studies of the ecology, diversity and abundance of marine invertebrates and algae of the Aegean Sea, carried out by Archipelagos’ marine team, are frequently coupled by laboratory analyses for the identification and isolation of bioactive substances in marine species. These bioactive substances potentially could have pharmaceutical and/or biotechnological uses. For example, reactive chemicals, such as alkaloids, which give sponges and other marine invertebrates their bright colorations, potentially have great value for a wide range of applications, varying from cancer treatment medications to eco-friendly antifouling paint for ships and boats (to replace currently used toxic antifouling paints). Similar reactive chemicals may be found in the predators of these species as well.
As Archipelagos is working in various locations in the Greek seas throughout the year, our researchers are able to collect and analyse a large number of samples obtained either through visual-census surveys, or as by-catch from fishing boats. In this way, we are able to process a large number of different samples, originating from different locations, habitats and depths.
This research is carried out in close collaboration with the Laboratory of Pharmacognocy and Chemistry of Natural Products, of Pharmacology Department at Athens University, as well as with the Department of Pharmacy at Cardiff University.The Archipelagos laboratory applies the
Thin-layer chromatography(TLC) technique to a wide range of species. A basic chemical profile is being produced for each species, so that the most interesting ones can be selected and sent to the laboratories of our collaborating universities for further chromatographic analyses.