Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 23, 2025

Author Spotlight: Affinity Purification of a Fibrinolytic Enzyme from Sipunculus nudus
Published on: June 2, 2023
Serratiopeptidase: An integrated View of Multifaceted Therapeutic Enzyme
Sreelakshmi R Nair1, Subathra Devi C1
1Department of Biotechnology, School of Bio Sciences and Technology, Vellore Institute of Technology, Vellore 632014, India.
Abstract:
Microbial products have been used for the treatment of different diseases for many centuries. The serratiopeptidase enzyme provides a new hope for COVID-19-infected patients. Nowadays, anti-inflammatory drugs are easy to obtain at minimal expenditure from microbial sources. Serratia sp. is identified as one of the most efficient bacteria produced from serratiopeptidase. Screening for new and efficient bacterial strains from different sources has been of interest in recent years. Serratiopeptidase remains the most well-known anti-inflammatory drug of choice. Serratiopeptidase is a cheaper and safer anti-inflammatory drug alternative to NSAIDs. The multifaceted properties of serratiopeptidase may lead towards arthritis, diabetes, cancer and thrombolytic treatments. Existing serratiopeptidase treatments in combination with antibiotics are popular in the treatment of postoperative swelling. Although an exclusive number of serratiopeptidase-producing strains have been derived, there is an urge for new recombinant strains to enhance the production of the enzyme. This review explores the properties of serratiopeptidase, different therapeutic aspects, industrial production, and various analytical techniques used in enzyme recovery. In addition, the review highlights the therapeutic and clinical aspects of the serratiopeptidase enzyme to combat COVID-19-induced respiratory syndrome.
Insights
Serratiopeptidase, a microbial enzyme, offers a safe and cost-effective anti-inflammatory alternative to NSAIDs. Its potential applications extend to treating arthritis, cancer, and COVID-19 complications.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Enzymology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Microbial products have a long history in disease treatment.
- Serratiopeptidase, an enzyme from *Serratia* sp., is a well-established anti-inflammatory agent.
- There is a continuous need for novel microbial strains for enhanced enzyme production.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the properties and therapeutic potential of serratiopeptidase.
- To explore industrial production and analytical techniques for serratiopeptidase.
- To highlight serratiopeptidase's role in managing COVID-19.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of scientific databases.
- Analysis of existing studies on serratiopeptidase production and application.
- Exploration of recombinant strain development for enzyme enhancement.
Main Results:
- Serratiopeptidase is a cheaper and safer alternative to NSAIDs.
- The enzyme shows promise for treating arthritis, diabetes, cancer, and thrombolytic conditions.
- Combination therapy with antibiotics is effective for postoperative swelling.
Conclusions:
- Serratiopeptidase possesses multifaceted therapeutic properties.
- Further research into recombinant strains is needed to optimize enzyme production.
- Serratiopeptidase shows potential in addressing COVID-19 related respiratory issues.
Related Concept Videos
Drugs for Peptic Ulcer Disease: Sucralfate as Mucosal Protective Agents
In this scenario, mucosal protective agents like sucralfate play an essential role. Sucralfate, a complex of sulfated sucrose and aluminum hydroxide, demonstrates its usefulness in acidic conditions,...
Enzyme Inhibition
Acid Suppressive Drugs for Peptic Ulcer Disease: Proton Pump Inhibitors
Gastric acid, a potent cocktail of hydrogen and chloride ions, is produced in specialized parietal cells within the...
Peptic Ulcer Disease IV: Management
The therapeutic approach involves ensuring adequate rest, implementing drug therapy, promoting smoking cessation, making dietary modifications, and emphasizing long-term follow-up care.
Pharmacological management
The prevailing therapy for peptic ulcers involves a combination of managing the patient's current...
Protein Digestion
Dipeptidyl Peptidase 4 Inhibitors

