Bacteriocins of Gram-positive bacteria: Features and biotherapeutic approach

Abstract

Bacteriocins are potent antimicrobial peptides produced by every bacterial and archeal species reported to date. The most studied are bacteriocins produced by lactic acid bacteria (LAB) and many species of Bacillus. Knowledge on the classification, biosynthesis and transport of these peptides is changing continually because the discovery and characterization of new bacteriocins increases, thus, the research reports increase at the same rate. The bacteriocins are considered the most promising molecules with enormous possibilities and realities for the design of improved antibiotics possessing specific characteristics, mostly against antibiotic resistant bacteria. Here, current information on the generalities, classification proposals, biosynthesis and transport systems involved in the bacteriocins secretion is review. Finally, this review will focus on the new approaches for its application in veterinary medicine and human health.