A protein found in the blood of Sydney rock oysters may hold promise in the battle against antibiotic-resistant superbugs, according to a recent study from Southern Cross University (SCU) in Australia. This discovery could pave the way for new treatments for bacterial infections.
How the Oyster Protein Works:
The protein in oyster blood has shown the ability to kill bacteria, including Streptococcus pneumoniae (which causes pneumonia) and Streptococcus pyogenes (which causes strep throat). Laboratory tests revealed that when the protein was combined with antibiotics, it made them up to 32 times more effective against harmful bacteria like Staphylococcus aureus and Pseudomonas aeruginosa.
Fighting Antibiotic Resistance:
The study highlights the potential for oyster-derived products to be used as natural treatments for bacterial infections, especially those caused by antibiotic-resistant superbugs. These superbugs are a growing threat to global public health, as they no longer respond to traditional antibiotics, making infections harder to treat and increasing the risk of severe illness and death.
A Safe Solution for Human Cells:
Importantly, the researchers found that the oyster protein is not toxic to human cells, suggesting that it could be developed into a safe antibiotic. The protein has also shown the ability to fight bacteria that form biofilms—groups of bacteria that stick together and can resist both antibiotics and the human immune system.
Opportunity for Collaboration:
Kirsten Benkendorff, a co-author of the study, emphasized that the discovery offers an exciting opportunity for collaboration between researchers, the aquaculture industry, and pharmaceutical companies. By working together, they could develop new antibiotics to fight antimicrobial-resistant bacteria and improve public health outcomes globally.
