Abstract

Microbial Chemistry as a Strategic Engine for Contemporary Drug Discovery

Author(s): Hannah L. Whitcombe

Drug discovery is a multidisciplinary process aimed at identifying chemical entities capable of modulating biological systems to treat disease. Microbial chemistry has emerged as a powerful and reliable foundation for drug discovery due to the immense chemical diversity and biological relevance of microbial metabolites. Microorganisms produce a wide array of secondary metabolites that exhibit antibacterial, antifungal, antiviral, anticancer, and immunomodulatory activities. These compounds often possess complex molecular architectures shaped by evolutionary pressure, making them highly effective in interacting with biological targets. This article examines the role of microbial chemistry in modern drug discovery, focusing on microbial metabolite screening, chemical characterization, lead identification, and optimization strategies that support the development of novel therapeutics.