Superbugs resistant to existing antibiotics are a growing health concern worldwide, killing nearly five million people annually. Researchers have discovered that oysters contain antimicrobial proteins that can kill certain bacteria and improve the efficacy of conventional antibiotics.
The annual toll of antimicrobial-resistant infections is expected to rise by 70%, with an estimated 40 million deaths between now and 2050. To address this issue, scientists are searching for new antibiotics and agents that can enhance existing treatments.
New research published in PLOS ONE has found that oyster hemolymph proteins can effectively kill bacteria responsible for common infections such as pneumonia and strep throat. The proteins also inhibit biofilm formation and can penetrate existing biofilms, making them valuable tools in the fight against superbugs.
The discovery of these antimicrobial proteins provides hope for developing new antibiotic treatments. In combination with conventional antibiotics, oyster hemolymph proteins have shown significant promise in killing bacteria such as Streptococcus pneumoniae and Staphylococcus aureus.
While further research is needed, including animal testing and clinical trials, the potential benefits of these oyster-derived proteins are promising. The fact that Sydney rock oysters are commercially available makes sustainable supply a consideration for future development.
Source: https://www.sciencealert.com/oyster-blood-could-be-vital-in-the-fight-against-superbugs