Fungal endophytes as a potential source of therapeutically important metabolites

Abstract Endophytes are the microorganisms that exist inside plant tissue without triggering any negative effects. They are potential sources of bioactive metabolites that have multiple applications in the field of pharmaceuticals, health care, agriculture, biostimulant industry, and biotechnology. Many endophytic fungi produce bioactive compounds that protect plants against herbivores, pathogens, and biotic and abiotic stresses. Many of these endophytic metabolites are recognized as useful novel discoveries in the fields of pharmaceuticals and health care. These fungal drugs can be an answer to many diseases. The present chapter highlights the significance of fungal endophytes as a reservoir of bioactive metabolites of medicinal importance. The fungal metabolites belong to the group of chemicals, that is, steroids, terpenoids, quinones, coumarins, phenols, saponins, alkaloids, etc. Endophyte-derived compounds show anticancer, immunomodulatory, antitubercular, antiviral, and antidiabetic activities. This chapter underlines the significance of endophytic fungi for the production of bioactive compounds of medicinal importance. It also focuses on possible strategies for augmentation of metabolite production which will eventually help to assess the future impact of these bioactive compounds in disease treatment.