Diolides

Diolides are a class of cyclic peptides produced by various species of marine sponges. They are characterized by their unique structure, which typically includes a 12-membered ring containing two amino acids, hence the name "diolides." These peptides are known for their potent biological activities, including antimicrobial, anticancer, and immunosuppressive properties. The most well-known diolide is diolide A, which was first isolated from the marine sponge Haliclona sp. in 1990. Diolides are synthesized through a complex biosynthetic pathway involving non-ribosomal peptide synthetases (NRPSs) and other enzymes. The structure of diolides is stabilized by intramolecular hydrogen bonds and hydrophobic interactions, which contribute to their stability and biological activity. Diolides have been the subject of extensive research due to their potential as lead compounds for the development of new drugs. However, their complex structure and limited availability have posed challenges for their synthesis and development. Despite these challenges, diolides continue to be a valuable source of inspiration for the design of new bioactive molecules.