Exploring the Potential of Oyster-Derived Antimicrobial Proteins in Combating Drug-Resistant Infections

Abstract

The rising tide of antibiotic-resistant infections represents a formidable threat to global public health, compelling the scientific community to seek alternative therapeutic strategies. Among various marine organisms investigated for their bioactive compounds, oysters have emerged as promising candidates due to their robust immune systems and ability to survive in pathogen-rich environments. Oysters (family Ostreidae) possess an intricate array of innate immune molecules, including a diverse repertoire of antimicrobial proteins (AMPs), that allow them to combat microbial invaders without the benefit of adaptive immunity. This paper reviews the growing body of literature surrounding oyster-derived antimicrobial proteins, with a particular focus on their potential applications in addressing the global crisis of multidrug-resistant (MDR) pathogens.

Oysters produce several classes of antimicrobial molecules, including defensins, lysozymes, bactericidal permeability-increasing proteins, and C-type lectins, each with unique structural and functional properties. These proteins have demonstrated potent antibacterial, antifungal, and antiviral activities, often displaying broad-spectrum efficacy while maintaining low cytotoxicity toward mammalian cells. For example, oyster defensins such as Cg-Def have been shown to disrupt bacterial membranes and exhibit activity against both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria, including strains resistant to conventional antibiotics.

The mechanism of action of these proteins typically involves binding to microbial membranes, disrupting membrane integrity, or interfering with intracellular pathways. Their multifunctional roles extend beyond antimicrobial activity, including modulation of immune responses and synergistic effects when combined with existing antibiotics. Importantly, the low likelihood of resistance development against these natural peptides enhances their attractiveness as therapeutic agents.

Advances in proteomic and transcriptomic technologies have accelerated the identification and characterization of oyster AMPs, while recombinant expression systems and synthetic peptide production offer scalable avenues for pharmaceutical development. Furthermore, the integration of oyster-derived proteins into nanocarriers and hydrogels is being explored to optimize delivery, stability, and bioavailability in clinical settings.

However, despite their therapeutic promise, challenges remain. These include the limited understanding of the pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of oyster AMPs in vivo, potential immunogenicity in humans, and the need for cost-effective production methods. Continued interdisciplinary research encompassing molecular biology, bioengineering, and clinical microbiology is essential to unlock the full potential of oyster AMPs.

This review synthesizes current knowledge on the biochemical characteristics, mechanisms of action, and therapeutic potential of oyster-derived antimicrobial proteins. We also outline future directions for research and development, highlighting their potential role in combating the global health crisis posed by drug-resistant infections. The integration of oyster AMPs into the antimicrobial arsenal may represent a paradigm shift in our approach to infectious disease management, aligning with the One Health perspective by leveraging marine biodiversity for human benefit.

DOI: 10.8612/39.1.2024.3