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Bacteriocin production and sensitivity.
K Kecerová1, P Pristas, P Javorský
1Institute of Animal Physiology, Slovak Academy of Sciences, 040 01 Kosice, Slovakia. kecerova@saske.sk
Folia Microbiologica
|July 2, 2004
Summary
Bacteriocin-like activity and resistance were identified in most enterococcal and streptococcal isolates. These bacteriocins demonstrated significant thermal stability, remaining active after high-temperature treatments.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Bacteriology
Background:
- Bacteriocin-like substances (BLSs) are ribosomally synthesized antimicrobial peptides produced by bacteria.
- Enterococci and streptococci are common bacteria found in various environments, including the human gut.
- Investigating BLSs from these bacteria can reveal novel antimicrobial agents.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the prevalence of bacteriocin production and resistance in enterococcal and streptococcal isolates.
- To assess the thermal stability of bacteriocins produced by these Gram-positive bacteria.
Main Methods:
- Overlay assays were employed to detect bacteriocin-like activity and resistance.
- Acetone precipitation was used to isolate and purify bacteriocin precipitates.
- Thermal stability of bacteriocins was evaluated at different temperatures (37°C and 95°C).
Main Results:
- Six out of seven isolates (five enterococcal, two streptococcal) exhibited bacteriocin-like activity or resistance.
- Most strains tested were susceptible to the bacteriocins produced by the identified producers.
- The precipitated bacteriocins showed high stability at 37°C, with some retaining activity after a 95°C treatment.
Conclusions:
- Enterococcal and streptococcal isolates can produce bacteriocin-like substances with antimicrobial properties.
- The identified bacteriocins possess remarkable thermal stability, suggesting potential for applications requiring heat resistance.