A systematic review on calothrixins: potential cyanobacterial metabolites from chemistry to pharmacological properties, synergism and safety aspects

Calothrixins, bioactive secondary metabolites derived from the cyanobacterium Calothrix , have gained significant interest owing to its wide range of pharmacological properties. Anti-cancer, antimicrobial, antidiabetic and other therapeutic properties of this compound make it novel and unique. In the present article, the existing knowledge pertaining to the pharmacological properties of the calothrixins has been compiled based on its studies. Calothrixins A and B have been reported to be cytotoxic against a wide variety of cancer cell lines, especially the breast, lung, and colon cancer cell lines, by DNA intercalation leading to apoptosis. In combination with other drugs, the efficiency of treatment and the reduction of harmful side effects have also been enhanced by overcoming drug resistance. In addition to its anticancer properties, calothrixins are promising broad-spectrum antibacterial and antifungal agents for use in the treatment of antibiotic-resistant infections. These molecules have recently been prepared by advances in synthetic chemistry, which reveal its characteristic polycyclic structures and the reactivity confirming its biological activity. In this review, an insightful discussion has been provided on improving the calothrixins delivery and efficacy using nanotechnology, along with safety concerns due to its toxicity and pro-oxidant activity. To infer, calothrixin compounds are promising in pharmacological and drug development, which would enable multifaceted approaches toward the development of novel medications against various health challenges.