Towards the application of Lactobacillus crispatus as live biotherapeutic product based on its broad-spectRUm antimicrobial activity. (CRUCIAL)

In an era marked by escalating concerns over antibiotic and antimycotic resistance, the need to explore unconventional sources of antimicrobial agents has become increasingly urgent. The emergence of antibiotic-resistant pathogens challenges the efficacy of traditional antibiotics, thereby causing serious global public health risks and a worldwide pandemic. In this context, lactobacilli, traditionally renowned for their probiotic properties, have recently emerged as a promising source of novel antibiotics. These lactic acid bacteria, abundant in various natural habitats including the human vagina and fermented foods, present a unique opportunity for the discovery of antimicrobial compounds that could potentially address the growing antibiotic resistance crisis. This research project aims to elevate recent discoveries regarding potential antibiotic production, including a novel type of bacteriocins, by lactobacilli from the host laboratory to a higher Technology Readiness Level (TRL). Our objectives include purifying and characterizing these compounds by assessing their antimicrobial efficacy against key pathogens, including yeasts like Candida albicans and ESKAPE pathogens and elucidate their mode of action. Hereto, we will assess their safety and efficacy in in vivo models and initiate the development of a (multispecies) bacterial formulation that can be used in future studies. The ultimate goal is to amass a robust dataset that can attract industrial partners for future endeavors aimed at clinical applications. Through innovative approaches, we aspire to unveil and harness the untapped antimicrobial potential of lactobacilli, providing a ray of hope in our ongoing battle against antibiotic resistance.

Keywords:ANTIMICROBIAL, WOMEN

Disciplines:Infectious diseases, Microbiomes, Microbiology not elsewhere classified, Drug discovery and development not elsewhere classified