Antibacterial activity of selected invertebrate species.

The evolution of multiple-drug resistant bacteria is contributing to the global antimicrobial crisis, hence driving us to search for novel antimicrobial(s). Among animals, invertebrates represent up to 80% of all known species suggesting their wide distribution. Despite their ubiquitous and plentiful nature, they have been largely unexplored as potential source of antibacterials.

Biologically active metabolite(s) from haemolymph of red-headed centipede Scolopendra subspinipes possess broad spectrum antibacterial activity.

The discovery of novel antimicrobials from animal species under pollution is an area untapped. Chinese red-headed centipede is one of the hardiest arthropod species commonly known for its therapeutic value in traditional Chinese medicine. Here we determined the antibacterial activity of haemolymph and tissue extracts of red-headed centipede, Scolopendra subspinipes against a panel of Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria.

Antimicrobial discovery from natural and unusual sources.

Objectives: Whether vertebrates/invertebrates living in polluted environments are an additional source of antimicrobials.

Key Findings: Majority of antimicrobials have been discovered from prokaryotes and those which are of eukaryotic origin are derived mainly from fungal and plant sources. With this in mind, it is important to note that pests, such as cockroaches come across pathogenic bacteria routinely, yet thrive in polluted environments.

Identification and characterization of antibacterial compound(s) of cockroaches (Periplaneta americana).

Infectious diseases remain a significant threat to human health, contributing to more than 17 million deaths, annually. With the worsening trends of drug resistance, there is a need for newer and more powerful antimicrobial agents. We hypothesized that animals living in polluted environments are potential sources of antimicrobials.