Assessing the antibacterial activity of snail mucin against Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli

Abstract

Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli are common dangerous pathogens that cause various infections and biofilm-related diseases. The emergence of antibiotic-resistant strains of S. aureus poses a serious threat to public health and calls for alternative antibacterial agents. Snail mucin is a viscous-elastic substance secreted by snails for various biological functions, such as adhesion, lubrication, and protection. This research was aimed to investigate the antibacterial activity of snail mucin got from Amphidromus spp and Bulimulus sporadicus against S. aureus and E. coli. Mucin from Bulimulus sporadicus proved more effective against the tested pathogens with MIC37 on S. aureus and MIC18 on E. coli, whereas the activity from Amphidromus spp. was weaker in comparison with MIC37 on E. coli and required more than half the concentration on S. aureus. The expected outcomes of this research are to elucidate the antibacterial actions of snail mucin to come up with naturally occurring compounds that can be used as potential drug agents and antibiotics.