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A Method to Assess Bacteriocin Effects on the Gut Microbiota of Mice
Published on: July 25, 2017
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Functions and emerging applications of bacteriocins
Michael L Chikindas1, Richard Weeks2, Djamel Drider3
1Health Promoting Naturals Laboratory, School of Environmental and Biological Sciences, Rutgers State University, 65 Dudley Road, New Brunswick, NJ 08901, USA; Center for Digestive Health, New Jersey Institute for Food, Nutrition and Health, 61 Dudley Road, New Brunswick, NJ 08901, USA.
Current Opinion in Biotechnology
|August 9, 2017
Summary
Bacteriocins, antimicrobial peptides, are expanding from food preservation to human health applications. Research explores their potential as novel antibiotics, drug delivery systems, and cancer treatments.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Biotechnology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Bacteriocins are ribosomally synthesized antimicrobial peptides.
- Traditionally used as food preservatives, their applications are expanding.
- Research is exploring novel uses beyond food preservation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the expanding applications of bacteriocins.
- To highlight their potential in human health and novel technologies.
- To discuss research trends focusing on bacteriocins from Gram-positive bacteria.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of bacteriocin research.
- Analysis of translational research and application-oriented studies.
- Exploration of genetic and nanotechnological advancements impacting bacteriocin applications.
Main Results:
- Bacteriocins show promise as next-generation antibiotics.
- Applications include novel carrier molecules and cancer treatment.
- Some bacteriocins regulate quorum sensing, suggesting new uses.
- Most application-focused studies concentrate on bacteriocins from Gram-positive bacteria.
Conclusions:
- Bacteriocin applications are significantly broadening beyond food preservation.
- Emerging fields include advanced drug delivery and therapeutic uses.
- Further research on bacteriocins from various sources is warranted.
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