Therapeutic Potential of Microbial Metabolites: New Insights and Perspectives

Abstract

Microbes release important metabolites that regulate various physiological activities inside and outside of organisms. The human gastrointestinal tract is a reservoir of microbes that play important regulatory roles in modulating the immune system and numerous other physiological functions. Thus, there is substantial interest in these microbial products and their clinical significance. These microbial metabolites have shown promise as therapies for cancer, inflammation, neurological disorders, and many other diseases. Here, we discuss microbial metabolites with substantial therapeutic potential, including proteasome inhibitors, therapeutic enzymes, bacteriocins, polyamines, and flavonoids.