Welcome to vnonline.co.uk

vnonline.co.uk provides the veterinary nursing profession with the latest news and industry developments, as well as events, resources, learning materials and careers.

Our website is dedicated to veterinary nurses and we strive to provide a platform where you can voice and explore your interests.

Not a member yet? Sign up for free!

Register for free with vnonline.co.uk to gain unlimited access to news, resources, jobs and much more!



Click here to become a member






Log in to vnonline

Forgot your password?

Posted: 27th February 2017

Komodo dragon blood could help in AMR fight
komodo dragon
Komodo dragon saliva contains at least 57 species of bacteria that are thought to help kill their prey, but the Komodo itself appears to be resistant to the bacteria.
Scientists identify antimicrobial activity in lizard’s blood

Antimicrobial substances discovered in the blood of Komodo dragons could help with the development of new drugs for treating antibiotic resistant infections, scientists say.

A study published in the Journal of Proteome Research describes antimicrobial protein fragments that appear to help the lizards resist deadly infections.

Komodo dragon saliva contains at least 57 species of bacteria that are thought to help kill their prey, but the Komodo itself appears to be resistant to the bacteria.

Researchers from the College of Science at George Mason University identified and sequenced 48 potential cationic antimicrobial peptides (CAMPs) - an essential part of the innate immune system - in the blood of Komodo dragons. All but one of these were derived from histone proteins, which are known to have antimicrobial activities.

Eight were synthesised and tested against Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Staphylococcus aureus. Seven out of eight showed significant potency against both bacteria and the eighth was only effective against P. aeruginosa. The researchers conclude that Komodo blood plasma contains a host of potentially viable antimicrobial peptides that could lead to new treatments.



Become a member or log in to add this story to your CPD history



Latest news | Careers | Events | Resources | Contact us | Terms and conditions | Data Protection and Privacy |Cookie policy | About us | Copyright
© 2024 Vision Media, all rights reserved. vnonline.co.uk is not responsible for the content of external websites.