The emerging significance of small molecules and marine natural products in immunology and cancer therapy

Small molecules, organic compounds of low molecular weight, are increasingly recognized for their pivotal role in biomedical research and therapeutic innovation. Their ability to precisely modulate biological pathways makes them powerful tools, often offering greater specificity and flexibility than macromolecular approaches such as protein-based drugs or gene therapies. Recent work from our group has focused on chemical immunology and drug discovery, with a particular emphasis on novel small molecule mass spectrometry techniques. Notably, natural products, especially those derived from marine organisms, have emerged as a rich source of structurally unique and biologically potent small molecules. These marine natural products have demonstrated significant potential in cancer therapy by targeting key signaling pathways, overcoming drug resistance, and enhancing immune responses. This presentation will highlight our recent studies exploring the therapeutic relevance of both synthetic and naturally derived small molecules in the context of human disease, with a spotlight on their role in advancing cancer treatment. Publication History Article published online: 05 March 2026 © 2026. Thieme. All rights reserved. Georg Thieme Verlag KG Oswald-Hesse-Straße 50, 70469 Stuttgart, Germany