Marine Microbial Exopolysaccharides (EPSs): Untapped Bio-Reserves

Abstract

Antibiotic discovery occurs at a snail’s pace, coercing researchers to find novel and promising alternatives to tackle antimicrobial resistance (AMR). Marine microbial exopolysaccharides (EPSs) have emerged as one, considering the recent recognition of these substances as a significant bioactive compound. This manuscript is intended to relate the identified molecular features of marine-driven EPS and applications in the field of biomedical sciences. The current review pointed out the ecological merits of such polymers in agriculture sector. Biochemical structure and the controlling mechanisms of EPS production in marine microbes are considered key features as well. Climate-induced factors impacting the production, composition, and functionality of EPSs are scrutinized. Last but not least, it draws biological insights from medical, industrial, and biotechnology sectors, thereby highlighting their linkage between antimicrobial innovation, industrial biotechnology, and environmental sustainability, while also describing the concerns that need to be resolved, like translation of laboratory results into marketable products.