Drug Development from Natural Resources: Scope and Challenges

Drug development from natural resources presents both opportunities and challenges in designing new drug leads. This book provides a comprehensive overview of novel bioactive compounds derived from terrestrial and marine sources. It discusses their phytochemical analysis, structural characterization, pharmacological evaluation, and the stages of clinical trials necessary before market introduction. Emphasizing the value of natural resources, the book highlights their critical role in discovering new and effective therapeutic agents for the benefit of mankind.

For decades, natural products from land and sea have served as significant sources of drug candidates with proven therapeutic benefits. However, transforming a screening hit into a viable drug candidate requires rigorous structural elucidation and validation of pharmacological properties. The process is now being transformed by innovative technologies and advanced techniques, which are accelerating the pace and precision of drug discovery.

This volume features 13 research papers contributed by experts and professionals from eight countries-Egypt, India, Malaysia, Myanmar, Nepal, Nigeria, South Africa, and Vietnam. These contributions offer insights into emerging strategies for utilizing natural resources in drug development and address the challenges and limitations commonly faced by developing nations and NAM countries. The book serves as a valuable reference for researchers, policymakers, and pharmaceutical professionals engaged in natural product drug discovery and development.