About this Research Topic
Natural products (from plant, microbial, and marine sources) have historically provided a rich source of bioactive compounds with potent therapeutic properties. Given the urgent need for new treatments, there is a growing impetus for the re-evaluation of these natural products in drug discovery and development to address these challenges.
This Research Topic aims to consolidate research in this area by seeking contributions focused on harnessing the potential of natural products to develop novel treatments or provide leads for infectious diseases. Themes include the identification, isolation, characterization, and preclinical/clinical evaluation of bioactive compounds from natural sources, as well as the exploration of traditional medicine for modern drug discovery.
-Identification and Isolation of Bioactive Compounds: This involves exploring diverse natural sources, including marine organisms, medicinal plants, and microorganisms, to identify and extract bioactive compounds that may have anti-infective properties. In addition to the techniques mentioned earlier, we emphasize the use of advanced analytical techniques, such as chromatography, spectroscopy, and bioassays, to isolate and characterize these compounds.
-Characterization of Bioactive Compounds: This focuses on the biological characterization and structural elucidation of bioactive compounds extracted from natural sources. The application of nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectrophotometry, X-ray crystallography, and mass spectrometry will be employed as advanced techniques to ascertain the structures of compounds. The evaluation of biological activities, including antimicrobial, anti-parasitic, and antiviral properties, will be accepted as an assessment of their potential as drug candidates.
-Preclinical Evaluation of Natural Products: This addresses the preclinical evaluation of bioactive compounds derived from natural products. In vitro and in vivo studies will be conducted to assess the safety, efficacy, and pharmacokinetic profiles of the compounds. Additionally, investigation of mechanisms of action and potential drug interactions to support the development of lead compounds for further clinical evaluation.
-Clinical Evaluation and Translation: Subject focused on the clinical evaluation of natural product-derived compounds as potential treatments for infectious diseases. Clinical trials, including phases I to III conducted to assess the safety, efficacy, and dosage regimens of the lead compounds. Furthermore, translational research, including pharmacogenomics and personalized medicine approaches, to optimize treatment outcomes will be considered.
-Exploration of Traditional Medicine for Drug Discovery: Examining the integration of traditional medicine and indigenous knowledge systems in the discovery and development of novel therapeutics and their harmony with orthodox medicine.
We welcome submissions covering the identification, isolation, characterization, and preclinical/clinical evaluation of bioactive compounds derived from natural sources, including but not limited to plant, microbial, and marine organisms.
Keywords: neglected diseases, infectious diseases, natural products, drug discovery, traditional medicine integration.
Important Note: All contributions to this Research Topic must be within the scope of the section and journal to which they are submitted, as defined in their mission statements. Frontiers reserves the right to guide an out-of-scope manuscript to a more suitable section or journal at any stage of peer review.