Research and Applications in Bacteriocins
Publisher: Horizon Bioscience
Editor: Margaret A. Riley and Osnat Gillor Department of Biology, University of Massachusetts, Amherst, USA
Publication date: January 2007
ISBN: 978-1-904933-23-6 (hardback)
ISBN: 978-1-904933-46-5 (ebook)
Pages: vi + 218
Bacteriocins comprise a large and functionally diverse family of toxins found in most microbial species. They play a critical role in mediating microbial interactions and in maintaining microbial diversity.
The dramatic rise in antibiotic-resistant bacteria has resulted in renewed efforts to find new antimicrobials. Bacteriocins are an attractive focus for drug development because bacteriocins are active against most pathogens, already exist in nature, are remarkably stable, and are not toxic to human cells. Recently, significant advances have enhanced our understanding of the genetics of bacteriocin production and of their mode of action. Research is currently under way to improve the efficacy of bacteriocins by genetic manipulation and to enable their production in non-native hosts.
The authors in this book discuss the identification and characterisation of this diverse group of protein toxins and review the ever-increasing number of potential applications in human health, veterinary medicine, crop management, agriculture, food preservation and bioremediation. Topics covered include: biosynthesis, structure and function, genetic modification, cytotoxic activity, potential as antimicrobials, and applications in agriculture and veterinary health.
An essential book for all scientists interested in antimicrobials, drug development, bacterial toxins, lactic acid bacteria.
Reviews:
"an interesting book that examines a whole new world of antimicrobial agents" from Doodys
Chapter List:
Chapter 1
Introduction
Osnat Gillor and Margaret A. Riley
Chapter 2
Bacteriocin Biosynthesis, Structure and Function
Des Field, Paul Cotter, Colin Hill, and R. Paul Ross
Chapter 3
Genetically Modified Bacteriocins
Gunnar Fimland and Jon Nissen-Meyer
Chapter 4
Potential Application of Bacteriocins as Antimicrobials
Osnat Gillo, L.M. Nigro and Margaret A. Riley
Chapter 5
Cytotoxic Activity of Bacteriocins Against Eukaryotic Cells
Rosalba Lagos
Chapter 6
Lantibiotic Production by Streptococcus mutans: Their Uses in Replacement Therapy for the Prevention of Dental Caries and as Antibiotics for the Treatment of Various Infectious Diseases
James L. Smith, Ravi S. Orugunty and J.D. Hillman
Chapter 7
Use of Bacteriocins in Livestock
Francisco Diez-Gonzalez
Chapter 8
Bacteriocins of Plant-Associated Bacteria and Their Potential as Biocontrol Agents Against Phytopathogens
René De Mot
Chapter 9
Application of Bacteriocins in the Food Industry
E.B. O'Connor, R. Paul Ross and Colin Hill
Chapter 10
Nisin: Past, Present and Future
Timo M. Takala and Per E. J. Saris
Index
(EAN: 9781904933236)
