Bioprospecting
Bioprospecting is the systematic search for biologically active compounds from natural sources, including microorganisms, plants, and animals. This practice is crucial for the discovery of new drugs, agrochemicals, and other biotechnological products. The process involves identifying, isolating, and characterizing bioactive compounds, which can then be developed into commercial products. Bioprospecting can occur in various environments, such as terrestrial, marine, and even extreme environments like deep-sea vents or polar regions.
The primary goal of bioprospecting is to find novel compounds that exhibit biological activity, such as antimicrobial,
However, bioprospecting also raises ethical and environmental concerns. The practice can lead to the exploitation of
In summary, bioprospecting is a vital field that contributes significantly to drug discovery and sustainable agriculture.