Discodermia dissoluta

Discodermia dissoluta is a species of deep-water sea sponge found in the Eastern, Southern, and Southwestern Caribbean, as well as in the Greater Antilles. This sponge is of particular interest to bio and organic chemists due to its production of a potent chemical compound called (+)-discodermolide, which has potential therapeutic applications for cancer treatment.

Description
D. dissoluta has a distinctive morphology, with a thick, smooth surface and a flattened, disc-shaped body that can grow up to 30 cm in diameter. The sponge's body is composed of a complex network of spicules and spongin fibers, which provide structural support and protection against predators.

Distribution and habitat
D. dissoluta is found in deep-water environments in the Caribbean, typically at depths ranging from 70 to 1,200 meters. It is commonly found on rocky substrates and coral reefs, where it may compete with other benthic organisms for space and resources.

Biochemical properties
D. dissoluta has garnered attention from the scientific community due to its production of (+)-discodermolide, a polyketide natural product with potent anticancer and immunosuppressive properties. (+)-Discodermolide was first isolated and characterized in 1990 by researchers at Harbor Branch Oceanographic Institution, who noted its remarkable structural complexity and unique mechanism of action.

The discovery of (+)-discodermolide sparked significant interest in the potential therapeutic applications of natural products derived from marine organisms, and led to extensive research into the biochemical properties and pharmacological effects of this compound.

Applications in cancer treatment
Studies have demonstrated that (+)-discodermolide exhibits potent cytotoxicity against a wide range of cancer cell lines, including those resistant to other chemotherapeutic agents. This has led to considerable interest in the development of (+)-discodermolide and related compounds as potential cancer therapies.

(+)-Discodermolide has also been found to have immunosuppressive properties, making it a potential candidate for use in transplant medicine and other applications.

Conservation status
Due to its deep-water habitat and limited distribution, little is known about the population size or conservation status of Discodermia dissoluta. However, like many other marine organisms, it is threatened by human activities such as overfishing, pollution, and habitat destruction.

Research and conservation efforts
D. dissoluta is the subject of ongoing research into its biochemistry, ecology, and potential therapeutic applications. In addition, conservation efforts are underway to protect the species and its habitat from human impacts. These efforts include marine protected areas, sustainable fishing practices, and public outreach and education.