Laurinterol, the Main Smart Secondary Metabolite Among Lauranes and Cyclolauranes

Laurinterol, a halogenated sesquiterpene produced by red algae of the genus Laurencia, is one of the most characteristic compounds within the laurane and cyclolaurane families. This review compiles and examines current knowledge on laurinterol, integrating evidence on its occurrence, biosynthesis, biological activities, and structural features. Within a functional and ecological framework, laurinterol is proposed as an archetypal Smart Secondary Metabolite (SSM), a concept that reflects the convergence of structural singularity, high abundance within its biosynthetic context, broad biological activity, multi-target interactions, and ecological or chemotaxonomic relevance. This perspective highlights its role in adaptive processes within producing organisms and associated trophic networks. Laurinterol exhibits a broad bioactivity profile, including antimicrobial, antimycobacterial, cytotoxic, antiparasitic, enzyme inhibitory, antifouling, and insecticidal or repellent effects. Structure–activity relationship (SAR) studies remain limited and are mainly developed in specific models, particularly against Naegleria fowleri. The current intellectual property landscape related to laurinterol, including patent applications, granted patents, and technological development trends, is also examined. Overall, this review positions laurinterol as a structurally distinctive and functionally relevant marine metabolite within chemical ecology and marine natural products research.