Discovery, function, and translational applications of bioactive compounds against pathogens via sustainable approaches

The field of bioactive compound research has rapidly expanded in recent years, particularly in the context of discovering and utilising antimicrobial and immune-enhancing molecules from renewable resources. With the growing threat posed by antimicrobial resistance and the pressing need for more sustainable therapeutic solutions, there is heightened interest in microorganisms, fungi, and plants as sources of novel compounds. Cutting-edge studies employing genomics, transcriptomics, proteomics, and metabolomics have significantly advanced our understanding of how these molecules are biosynthesized, how they function, and what regulatory networks control their production. Despite this progress, key questions remain about the precise molecular mechanisms of action, resistance development, and the sustainable processing required to translate scientific discovery into feasible, eco-friendly health interventions.Recent findings have unveiled a wealth of new antimicrobial agents and immunomodulatory compounds, characterised by their diverse structures and potent biological activities. However, translating these discoveries into clinical or agricultural solutions requires not only a clear understanding of structure-function relationships but also an integrated knowledge of regulatory pathways and metabolic engineering. Additionally, while omics-based discovery has opened avenues to identify novel bioactives, comprehensive validation and functional studies are needed to elucidate their targets and modes of interaction. Resistance mechanisms and the molecular basis for immunomodulatory action also remain significant areas of ongoing investigation. Sustainable biosynthesis and scalable production processes represent crucial, yet relatively underexplored, aspects in this domain.This Research Topic aims to consolidate and expand current knowledge on the biosynthesis, regulation, molecular mechanisms, and translational applications of antimicrobial and immune-enhancing compounds derived from renewable, sustainable sources. The primary objective is to address crucial research gaps in understanding the mechanisms of action and resistance, to harness advanced omics for novel discovery, to clarify structure-activity relationships, and ultimately to facilitate sustainable production and practical application of these compounds in combating pathogens.To gather further insights into the discovery, characterisation, and sustainable use of antimicrobial and immune-modulatory biomolecules, we welcome articles addressing, but not limited to, the following themes:- Biosynthetic and regulatory processes of antimicrobial and immune-enhancing molecules from microorganisms, fungi, and plants- Molecular mechanisms of action and resistance associated with bioactive compounds- Omics-driven identification, validation, and functional analysis of novel biomolecules- Structure-function relationships and target interactions of antimicrobial agents- Translational research on therapeutics, vaccines, and natural products with immune-boosting properties, with an emphasis on sustainable processing and production strategies Topic editors: Julia Ines Fariña, Walter Jose Martinez Burgos, Allyson Guimarães Costa Source: https://www.frontiersin.org/research-topics/77061/discovery-function-and-translational-applications-of-bioactive-compounds-against-pathogens-via-sustainable-approaches