What characteristic of marine invertebrates drives their potent biomedical potential?
Answer
Evolved sophisticated chemical defenses in pathogen-rich areas
The vast potential for drug discovery stems from the intense evolutionary pressures faced by marine invertebrates residing in competitive and pathogen-rich aquatic environments. To survive in such conditions, these organisms have developed highly sophisticated and potent chemical defenses. These evolved chemical strategies, designed over millions of years to ward off pathogens, deter predation, or manage competition, translate directly into powerful biomedical applications when investigated for use against human diseases.
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