Integrating Bacteriocins and Biofilm-Degrading Enzymes to Eliminate L. monocytogenes Persistence

Listeria monocytogenes is a Gram-positive bacterium causing listeriosis, a severe infection responsible for significant morbidity and mortality globally. Its persistence on food processing surfaces via biofilm formation presents a major challenge, as conventional sanitizers and antimicrobials exhibit limited efficacy against biofilm-embedded cells. This study investigates a novel approach combining an engineered polysaccharide-degrading enzyme (CAase) with a bacteriocin (thermophilin 110) produced by Streptococcus thermophilus. Laboratory assays evaluated the effectiveness of this combination in disrupting biofilms and inactivating L. monocytogenes on various surfaces. The results demonstrated that CAase effectively disrupts biofilm structures, while thermophilin 110 significantly reduces bacterial growth and viability. The preliminary trials indicate a dual-action approach offers a potential alternative to conventional treatments, enhancing food safety by effectively controlling Listeria biofilms in food processing environments.