Description
Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) is one of the leading problems being faced by humanity in the 21st century. Some studies have indicated that at present rates AMR bacteria may be responsible for up to 10 million deaths worldwide by 2050. Innovative strategies aimed at mitigating this global problem encompass the usage of microbial biosurfactants as novel antimicrobial therapies. We have shown that glycolipid-type biosurfactant such as rhamnolipids are not only antimicrobial in themselves but can also facilitate the action of conventional antibiotic in resistant bacteria. Here we present our findings that demonstrate this finding with a Gram-positive multiple-drug resistant strain of Enterococcus faecalis, frequently implicated nosocomial infection.Interestingly and contrary to the above, glycolipid-type biosurfactants can also be beneficial to the natural human microbiome which protects against infection. When applied to skin, glycolipid-type biosurfactants were observed to have a less of a detrimental effect to skin commensal microorganisms than synthetically derived surfactants. As such this indicates that these compounds have the potential to be included in skin creams and sunblock. With both antimicrobial and microbiome protective activity it appears that the specific molecular structure/composition of the glycolipid is important, this will also be discussed in this presentation.
| Period | 11 Sept 2025 |
|---|---|
| Event title | Biosurfactants International Conference 2025 |
| Event type | Conference |
| Location | Aachen, Germany, North Rhine-WestphaliaShow on map |
| Degree of Recognition | International |
Keywords
- Biosurfactants
- Biotechnology
- Microbiology