A review on Actinomycetes distribution, isolation, and their medical applications

Abstract

Actinomycetes (Actinobacteria) are Gram-positive bacteria that grow in a variety of environments and have a filamentous shape similar to fungi. The actinomycetes distinguish themselves morphologically by forming a layer of hyphae that carry chains of spores. The aim of this study was to update the recent developments related to the actinomycetes. Streptomyces; as an actinomycete, is known for producing a number of bioactive secondary metabolites, including anti-tumour agents; antibiotics, antifungals, antivirals, anti-hypertension drugs, and immunosuppressives. In order to compete with other microorganisms, including those of the same genera, Streptomyces species produce several secondary metabolites. However, despite the discovery of antibiotics, the infectious diseases remain the secondleading cause of death worldwide. Each year, around 17 million people die from bacterial infections; mainly children and the elderly. In addition to the overuse of antibiotics, a key factor contributing to antibiotic resistance is self-medication, which reduces the lifespan of antibiotics.

A new analog of dihydroxybenzoic acid from Saccharopolyspora sp. KR21-0001

“…Actinomycetes are Gram-positive bacteria with high GC content in their genome. They are well-known as the main producers of bioactive compounds such as antibiotic, anti-cancer, antitumor, antiinflammatory, antihyperglycemic, antiapoptotic, immunosuppressant, and antioxidant compounds [1][2][3]. According to natural product screening since the 1920s, about 30,000 compounds derived from microbial sources have been reported [4].…”