Spanish researchers discover new biopreservatives for food

Licensing opportunity

Researchers at the Microbiology Department of the University of Granada have succeeded in isolating Enterocin AS-48, a natural biocide with a broad spectrum of action against a wide range of bacteria. The molecule can withstand a range of pH and temperatures, making it suitable for use as a biopreservative in food.

The research group is now studying how AS-48 acts on the bacterial cell wall, and will use this information to design new bacteriocides with other characteristics. The broad spectrum mode of action involves AS-48 binding to the bacterial cell membranes and making the leaky, or permeable, so that the bacterium loses its integrity and dies.

For more information, contact: Marina Sánchez Hidalgo. Department of Microbiology of the University of Granada [email protected]