Cyclic peptides from cyanobacteria: Structural insights, biological functions, and mechanisms of cyclization

Cyclic peptides are highly interested in natural product research due to their unique chemical structures and diverse biological activities, which substantially contribute to drug development. Cyanobacteria are recognized as a prolific source of bioactive compounds and have contributed significantly to this field. Over the past decade, 142 novel cyanobacterial cyclic peptides and peptolides from cyanobacteria have been identified, revealing many novel chemicals. Recent advancements have provided new perspectives on the cyanobacteria cyclic peptides and peptolides. This review systematically elaborates on the latest research progress, summarizing the identified cyclic peptide and peptolide structures, biological activities, and cyclization mechanisms over the past decade (2014–2023). By providing critical insights, this review aims to facilitate the discovery of novel cyclic peptides and peptolides from cyanobacteria and guide future efforts in structural engineering.