In the aim of searching for new antifungal products from marine origin, we have isolated a sphingosine derivative, (9Z)-2-amino-docos-9-ene-1,3,13,14-tetraol (Haliscosamine) from the Moroccan sea sponge Haliclona viscosa using bio-guided (antifungal) HPLC methods. The molecular structure of this compound was elucidated by spectrometric techniques IR, UV, MS and NMR. The isolated metabolite showed a significant antifungal activity against Cryptococcus and Candida species and a weak general toxicity in the brine shrimp lethality test. Further research is needed to study its in vivo activity, as well as to elucidate the mechanism underlying its activity in the hope of a future use in medical mycology.

Scolymus hispanicus L. (Golden thistle) is a well-known wild edible plant (WEP) in Morocco. However, the species value is not well investigated and its economic value is considerably low. Therefore, the aim of this work was to evaluate the phytochemical composition, the biological activities, and the acute toxicity of crude extract of S. hispanicus aerial parts. The mineral composition was assessed using an ICP-AES spectrometer and, the contents in polyphenol, flavonoids and tannins using colorimetric methods. The antioxidant activity was tested by DPPH assay. Disc diffusion and broth micro dilution methods were used to evaluate the antimicrobial activity. Moreover, the safety of the plant extract was validated by performing acute toxicity. The findings revealed that this plant is a rich source of protein, carbohydrates and minerals especially iron and, have high contents of polyphenols, flavonoids and tannins. The biological evaluation of the plant extracts exhibited a remarkable antioxidant content and, a wide antibacterial activity and yeast inhibition. The results indicated also that the tested extract is safe with an LD50 higher than 5000 mg.kg-¹. The study data suggest that S. hispanicus could be a promising functional and nutraceutical food with antioxidant and antimicrobial potential and can contribute to a balanced diet.