Beyond biopreservatives, bacteriocins biotechnological applications: History, current status, and promising potentials

Abstract

Bacteriocins are those ribosomally synthesized peptides secreted by bacteria that were first known in 1925. From this date till now, bacteriocins keep attracting scientists' attention for their potency and their ability to be employed in various human and animal health-improving biotechnological applications. Bacteriocins have started as a safe, natural biopreservatives, then as alternatives and/or support for some currently used antibiotics, promising anti-multidrug-resistant bacteria, antileishmanial, antifungal, and antiviral agents. Currently, some bacteriocins have been successfully acting as a treatment for certain types of tumors, ulcers, and cancers. Moreover, some potent bacteriocins are involved in other clinical and therapeutical applications In this review, we are highlighting the history and characteristics of bacteriocins, describing their biosynthesis, and comparing their modes of action with those of other antimicrobial peptides. Also, showing suitable bacteriocins delivery systems, and some current and potential bacteriocins contributions in oral health care, human body protection, treatment of systemic infections and peptic ulcers, controlling upper respiratory tract infection, urogenital tract infections. Additionally, potential applications of bacteriocins as an antitumor, anticancer, and spermicidal agents and in women's health care were clarified. Finally, future perspectives related to bacteriocins applications in medical fields were discussed.