Research progress in bioactive products of myxobacteria and their applications

Abstract:

Myxobacteria are a group of medical microorganisms showing complex multicellular behaviors. On one hand, they produce a variety of natural bioactive compounds with novel structures through secondary metabolism. On the other hand, they can secrete diverse functional enzymes. Therefore, myxobacteria are valuable for basic research and applications. However, the research on them has been impeded by the difficulties in resource mining and the low yield of secondary metabolites. This review introduces myxobacteria in terms of the biological characteristics, bioactive products, regulation on biosynthesis and applications in medicine, agriculture and food industry. Based on available results, the problems in the research on myxobacteria and the possible countermeasures are presented. This review is expected to provide reference for the in-depth research and the resource development and utilization of myxobacteria.