Therapeutics: A novel approach towards bacteriocin application

Abstract

Bacteriocins are small ribosomally synthesized antimicrobial peptides produced by certain bacterial species. The peptides featured strong bactericidal activity against near-related bacteria and in few cases broader pathogens. Increased incidence of resistant bacteria and the resultant global health crisis have promoted the search for alternative antimicrobial agents, with bacteriocins standing out as potential alternatives. Unlike traditional antibiotics, bacteriocins are also highly specific and tend only to target individual bacterial strains without significantly disturbing the microbiota that is beneficial. This specificity minimizes any side effects and-depending on the target product-even collateral damages to the host’s microbiome, which makes bacteriocins an appealing option for various therapeutic applications. These bacteriocins can be utilized in several different ways in medicine, from being introduced to parts of the body to fight infection to a coating that can be sprayed over or dipped in by medical equipment before being used.