Sub-Aerial Cyanobacteria: A Survey of Research with Antimicrobial Properties for Pharmaceutical Approaches

Abstract

Cyanobacteria also known as Blue Green Algae (BGA) are widely distributed in environments. Cyanobacteria or BGA commonly being aquatic are also reported from terrestrial ecosystems like sub-aerial surface of temples, monuments and building facades etc., represent their versatile habitats and extremophilic nature. These organisms are the excellent material for primary and secondary metabolites has been investigated by ecologists, physiologists, biochemists and molecular biologists. Scientists and young researchers require knowledge of the potential cyanobacteria and their exploitation in order to formulate effective natural compound or drug remedies. A large number of reports in literature stress have acknowledged the use of Cyanobacteria in pharmaceutical and industries, due to the production of different secondary metabolites with diverse bioactivities. However, very less study is being carried out with respect to exploitation of these sub-aerial Cyanobacteria group for production of different secondary metabolites with biological activities. Since many cyanobacteria are also able to survive most type of stress/and or extreme, they may become even more important as antimicrobial agents of pharmaceuticals in the future. Hence, special attention is paid to these groups of organisms.