Nisin
Overview
Nisin is a 34-amino acid polycyclic antibacterial peptide (lantibiotic) produced by Lactococcus lactis. It disrupts bacterial cell wall synthesis and forms pores in cell membranes by binding to lipid II, a precursor essential for peptidoglycan assembly.
Mechanism of Action
Its activity is primarily directed against Gram-positive bacteria, making it valuable in food preservation applications. The peptide contains unusual amino acids including lanthionine and beta-methyllanthionine, which confer structural stability and antimicrobial potency.
Research Summary & Key Findings
Nisin has been used as a food preservative for over 50 years and is designated as Generally Recognized As Safe (GRAS) by the FDA for food use. Clinical applications in human therapy remain investigational, with in vitro studies demonstrating activity against methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus and other resistant pathogens. Topical and oral formulations are under preclinical evaluation for biofilm-associated infections and gastrointestinal decontamination.
Clinical Status
Nisin is in the investigational stage. While preclinical and early-phase data exist, it has not received regulatory approval for clinical use in the United States.
Administration Routes
References
Primary literature
- PubMed — "Nisin"
Peer-reviewed literature indexed by the National Library of Medicine.
- ClinicalTrials.gov — "Nisin"
Registered interventional and observational studies, including status and phase.
- PubChem — "Nisin"
Chemical structure, molecular properties, and bioactivity data.
Study-level citations for this compound are being verified against the primary sources before publication. The database queries above return the current indexed literature in the meantime.
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