Syracuse

The blue Frontier: cancer research meets the diversity of marine chemistry and biology, new challenges and prospects Marine ecosystems account for more than 80% of the planet's biodiversity (Dayanidhi et al., 2021). Despite their immense potential for health, they have been studied far less than terrestrial ecosystems for the discovery of innovative drugs. Nonetheless, 15 marine-derived drugs have already been approved for commercialization (https://www. marinepharmacology.org/approved), including eight anticancer drugs. This vast marine biodiversity, along with the intricate and unique adaptations that enable survival in challenging physical environments, serves as a rich source of inspiration for scientists, driving innovative concepts and biotechnological developments. Over the past decades, several exciting areas of research have emerged and benefited from translational exchanges between marine sciences and oncology. Some examples include the "One World-One Health Concept" for the study of the impact of human activities on marine species oncogenesis, transmissible cancers, and tumor suppressor mechanisms (Dujon et al., 2021). The deep sea environment offers a vast reservoir of microorganisms, fungi, and invertebrates, complemented by algae and phytoplankton thriving in upper sea levels. Together, these organisms produce an extensive variety of primary and secondary metabolites, many of which exhibit potential anticancer and/or immunomodulatory properties (Molinski et al., 2009). Beyond small molecules, marine organisms also synthesize a diversity of macromolecules with unique biological, physicochemical, and structural properties, holding potential for by-product valorization, offering positive outcomes for both marine science and oncology (Claverie et al., 2020). The articles within this Research Topic explore various aspects of these compelling translational connections (https://www.frontiersin.org/research-topics/58861/the-blue-frontier-cancerresearch-meets-the-diversity-of-marine-chemistry-and-biology-new-challenges-and-prosp ects/articles).