Natamycin in Food and Ophthalmology: Knowledge Gaps and Emerging Insights from Zebrafish Models

Area of Science:

• Mycology
• Toxicology
• Pharmacology

Background:

• Natamycin is an FDA-approved antifungal for fungal keratitis and a food preservative.
• Current research on natamycin primarily examines short-term effects, neglecting long-term, developmental, and microbiome impacts.
• Advanced drug delivery systems for natamycin present formulation and pharmacokinetic challenges.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review existing evidence on natamycin's safety and efficacy.
• To highlight research gaps concerning long-term, developmental, and microbiome effects.
• To propose zebrafish as a model for comprehensive natamycin impact assessment.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of natamycin's use in food preservation and ophthalmology.
• Analysis of current research limitations and regulatory considerations.
• Exploration of zebrafish (Danio rerio) as a translational model.

Main Results:

• Gaps exist in understanding natamycin's cumulative exposure and gut microbiome effects.
• Ocular delivery methods may alter natamycin pharmacokinetics.
• Zebrafish, combined with omics technologies, can map systemic drug effects.

Conclusions:

• Zebrafish offer a valuable model for studying natamycin's effects on microbiome, development, and multigenerational outcomes.
• A framework is proposed for scientifically supported natamycin use in food and medicine.
• Further research is needed to ensure the long-term safety and efficacy of natamycin.