Aqueous extracts of marine organisms have provided us with interesting neuroactive molecules. We have reported novel kainate receptor ligands dysiherbaines from a Micronesian sponge and new purine derivatives with synaptic modulation activity from Palauan sponges. In the present paper, we outline isolation, structure and biological activity of these compounds. In addition, we present our recent progress in discovery of novel marine neuroactive compounds focusing on a novel peptide toxin Aculeins (ACUs) found form Okinawan sponge Axynissa aculeata. ACU A and B are isolated as toxic principals in the aqueous extract of the sponge. Aculeines are highly unique 44-amino acid peptide with three disulfide bonds. Amino acid terminals of ACUs were modified by long chain polyamines in an unprecedented manner.

Novel neuroactive compounds from aqueous extract of marine sponges

244th National Meeting (2012)

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