Analytical techniques for discovery of bioactive compounds from marine fungi

Marine fungi are a promising source of novel bioactive compounds as lead structures for medicine and plant protection. We review current analytical techniques and future perspectives of analytical methodologies from the point of view of the discovery and the characterization of bioactive compounds isolated from marine fungi. This critical overview also includes a general assessment of sampling and preparation of extracts, and compares different methods used for separation and isolation, and different strategies used for structural characterization of the bioactive compounds. We also cover the evolution of the application of bioassays for discovery of bioactive compounds. Finally, this review addresses the advantages and the disadvantages of such techniques, and comments on future applications and potential research interest within this field. (C) 2012 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.