Exploring the Potential of Marine Drugs: A Patent Perspective

Abstract

The ocean is a potential source of bioactive compounds, but unlike terrestrial plants, it does not have a long history of use in traditional medicine. The marine environment is a one-of-a-kind resource with vast biological diversity that, if properly explored, could lead to breakthrough therapies. The influence of this sector on the pharmaceutical industry is growing as more substances derived from marine sources enter clinical testing. Marine creatures contain a large number of naturally occurring compounds with various structural and pharmacological properties. The recent rise in patent publications amply supports the importance of these compounds as sources of novel therapeutic agents. Marine-derived actives are being researched as prospective sources for anti-cancer, anti-bacterial, antiviral, and anti-inflammatory medications, as well as treatments for a range of other conditions, despite critical supply limitations. As the number of lead marine compounds increases, it becomes essential to explore the ongoing status of patents filed and granted in the field of marine pharmaceuticals. In this chapter, an effort has been made to gather valuable information on the recent patents available on various marine drugs.