Marine Bioactive Compounds as Promising Leads in Colorectal Cancer Drug Discovery

Colorectal cancer (CRC) remains a major global health concern, with rising incidence and mortality rates. Conventional treatment options such as surgery, chemotherapy, and radiotherapy often face limitations due to late-stage diagnosis, severe side effects, and the emergence of drug resistance. Marine bioactive compounds have gained attention as promising alternatives because of their unique chemical structures and potent pharmacological properties. Marine-derived natural products, including alkaloids, terpenoids, peptides, polysaccharides, and carotenoids, exhibit diverse mechanisms of action such as apoptosis induction, cell cycle arrest, inhibition of angiogenesis, modulation of immune responses, and suppression of metastasis. Various marine compounds have demonstrated significant in vitro and in vivo activity against CRC models, and some have progressed to clinical trials. Marine organisms, ranging from algae and sponges to microorganisms, serve as abundant sources of these bioactive agents. However, challenges such as low bioavailability, complex extraction processes, and regulatory barriers persist. Advances in nanotechnologybased drug delivery systems and synergistic use with conventional therapies may help overcome these limitations. Furthermore, marine biopolymers and peptides show potential in targeting cancer stem cells and key signaling pathways. Continued preclinical and clinical research is crucial for translating these marine-derived compounds into effective CRC treatments.