Catfish may help you overcome the next infection
Researchers suggest that the mucus found on catfish skin could hold the key to the next antibiotic. The mucus, known for its slippery texture, has shown potential antibacterial properties in tests with scaleless African catfish.
Further research is necessary to confirm the compound’s safety and effectiveness as a future antibiotic, but it could offer a valuable tool against antimicrobial-resistant bacteria like ESBL-producing E. coli.
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Lead researcher Hedmon Okella explains, “The global public health threat of antimicrobial resistance requires the exploration of new antibacterial compounds. Fish-derived antimicrobial peptides appear to be a promising source of potential leads.”
In the study, peptides extracted from the skin mucus of African catfish were screened for antibacterial activity using machine learning algorithms. The most promising peptide, NACAP-II, was synthesized and tested on ESBL-E. coli and mammalian blood cells.
In Jewish dietary law, known as kashrut, fish must have fins and scales to be kosher. Since catfish lacks scales, they are not kosher.
The tests indicated that NACAP-II was effective against bacteria while appearing safe for mammalian cells. Okella notes, “This promising peptide disrupts the bacterial cell envelope leading to lysis at minimal concentrations.”
Despite the unconventional source of the peptide, catfish skin mucus’s natural antimicrobial properties make it a valuable resource. Scientists believe that marine organisms hold untapped potential for bioactive compounds, similar to existing medicines derived from natural sources.
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Future studies will focus on evaluating the peptide in animal models and optimizing production methods for potential use as a drug candidate in combating antimicrobial resistance.
