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Potential of Streptomyces avermitilis: A Review on Avermectin Production and Its Biocidal Effect
Ernesto Cerna-Chávez1, José Francisco Rodríguez-Rodríguez2, Karen Berenice García-Conde2
1Departamento de Parasitología, Universidad Autónoma Agraria Antonio Narro, Calzada Antonio Narro 1923, Saltillo 25315, Coahuila, Mexico.
Abstract:
Secondary metabolites produced by the fermentation of Streptomyces avermitilis bacterium are powerful antiparasitic agents used in animal health, agriculture and human infection treatments. Avermectin is a macrocyclic lactone with four structural components (A1, A2, B1, B2), each of them containing a major and a minor subcomponent, out of which avermectin B1a is the most effective parasitic control compound. Avermectin B1a produces two homologue avermectins (B1 and B2) that have been used in agriculture as pesticides and antiparasitic agents, since 1985. It has a great affinity with the Cl-channels of the glutamate receptor, allowing the constant flow of Cl- ions into the nerve cells, causing a phenomenon of hyperpolarization causing death by flaccid paralysis. The purpose of this work was to gather information on the production of avermectins and their biocidal effects, with special emphasis on their role in the control of pests and phytopathogenic diseases. The literature showed that S. avermitilis is an important producer of macrocyclic lactones with biocidal properties. In addition, avermectin contributes to the control of ectoparasites and endoparasites in human health care, veterinary medicine and agriculture. Importantly, avermectin is a compound that is harmless to the host (no side effects), non-target organisms and the environment.
Insights
Streptomyces avermitilis produces avermectins, potent antiparasitic compounds. These avermectins are effective against parasites in humans, animals, and agriculture, with no harm to hosts or the environment.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology and Biochemistry
- Parasitology
- Agricultural Science
Background:
- Secondary metabolites from *Streptomyces avermitilis* fermentation are potent antiparasitic agents.
- Avermectin, a macrocyclic lactone, is a key compound, with avermectin B1a being the most effective parasitic control agent.
- Avermectin B1a yields avermectins B1 and B2, used as pesticides and antiparasitic agents since 1985.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the production of avermectins by *S. avermitilis*.
- To detail the biocidal effects of avermectins.
- To emphasize the role of avermectins in controlling pests and phytopathogenic diseases.
Main Methods:
- Literature review on avermectin production and efficacy.
- Analysis of avermectin's mechanism of action on nerve cells (glutamate receptor interaction and chloride ion flow).
- Compilation of data on avermectin's applications in human health, veterinary medicine, and agriculture.
Main Results:
- *S. avermitilis* is a significant producer of biocidal macrocyclic lactones.
- Avermectin effectively controls ectoparasites and endoparasites across various sectors.
- Avermectin exhibits a favorable safety profile, being harmless to hosts, non-target organisms, and the environment.
Conclusions:
- Avermectins derived from *S. avermitilis* are valuable biocidal compounds.
- Avermectin plays a crucial role in parasitic disease control in human, animal, and agricultural settings.
- The safety and efficacy of avermectin make it an environmentally sound choice for pest management.
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