Document Type
Article
Abstract
Biomedical research has discovered numerous pharmaceutical drugs and novel compounds produced by living organisms. Most of this research has focused on terrestrial sources but a potential reservoir of untapped drugs is being discovered in the oceans. Compounds produced from marine sponges, tunicates, bryozoans, soft corals and algae are being tested as potential agents against cancer, AIDS and other diseases. In this effort, the goal of the Division of Biomedical Marine Research (DBMR) at Harbor Branch Oceanographic Institution (HBOI) is to isolate and identify bioactive compounds from marine organisms. Since 1984 over 16,000 macroorganisms have been collected worldwide by HBOI personnel using scuba, JOHNSON-SEA-UNK submersibles and ROVs to depths of 9!5m. Biological assays of samples collected determine potential leads for antitumor, antiviral, antifungal, antibacterial and immunomodulatory agents. Active compounds are then isolated and structurally identified by nuclear magnetic resonance and mass spectroscopies. Presently over 200 chemical structures of biologically active compounds have been determined by DBMR scientists and affiliates resulting in 14 issued and allowed patents and 44 publications.
Publication Date
1989
Recommended Citation
This manuscript may be cited as: Reed, J. K., & Pomponi, S. A. (1989). Biomedical research in the sea, a search for drugs and novel compounds. In M. A. Lang & W. C. Jaap (Eds.), Diving for Science… 1989: Proceedings of the American Academy of Underwater Sciences Ninth Annual Scientific Diving Symposium, September 28- October 1, 1989. (pp. 273-287). [NOAA National Sea Grant No. NA86-AA-D-SG090 and Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution Sea Grant No. R/E-19-PD.]. Costa Mesa, California: American Academy of Underwater Sciences.
Comments
Florida Atlantic University. Harbor Branch Oceanographic Institute contribution #734.