Australian scientists have discovered a protein in the haemolymph (the equivalent of blood) of the Sydney rock oyster (Saccostrea glomerata) with potent antibacterial properties.
Key Findings
- In laboratory tests, this protein demonstrated the ability to kill Streptococcus pneumoniae, a bacterium responsible for pneumonia, and Streptococcus pyogenes, which causes strep throat and scarlet fever.
- While not yet tested in animals or humans, the protein also enhanced the effectiveness of antibiotics like ampicillin and gentamicin by two- to 32-fold against bacteria such as Staphylococcus aureus (golden staph) and Pseudomonas aeruginosa, which frequently affect immunocompromised individuals.
- The study, led by Prof. Kirsten Benkendorff of Southern Cross University, highlighted the potential of the protein to treat respiratory infections resistant to traditional antibiotics due to biofilms.
- Biofilms are sticky bacterial communities that shield pathogens from antibiotics and immune responses.
- The oyster haemolymph protein was found to be effective against Streptococcus biofilms, a significant breakthrough in addressing drug-resistant infections.
- Prof. Benkendorff noted that approximately two dozen oysters would yield enough haemolymph to provide a single active dose for an average person.
About Oysters
- Oysters, as saltwater bivalve mollusks, play a critical ecological role in marine environments, filtering pollutants and offering habitats for other species like barnacles and mussels.
- Beyond their medical potential, oysters also produce pearls as a natural defense against irritants such as parasites or damage.
(Source: The Guardian)
