Antifouling Agents from Eelgrass: Identification, Characterization and Mode of Action.

摘要

This research has focused on the isolation and structural characterization of natural, non-toxic antifoulants produced by the eelgrass Zostera marina L. Chemical purification of a single active agent from fractions produced by aqueous-organic phase partitioning, size filtration chromatography and HPLC was directed by microbial attachment assays. Structural characterization of the isolated agent was accomplished by high resolution nuclear magnetic resonance and mass spectrometry. The isolated compound and several analogs were synthesized. Laboratory bioassays and short term (<10 day) field experiments indicate that the natural agent and at least of the one synthetic analogs show significant antifouling activity against marine bacteria, algal spores, benthic diatoms, tube worms and barnacles. Evaluation of their antifouling potential continues. A patent application describing the use of these compounds as non-toxic antifouling agents is in preparation. Biofouling, Natural Products, Eelrass, Antifouling.