Combinatory effect of nisin antimicrobial peptide with bioactive molecules: a review

Abstract

The global concern over the emergence of antibiotic-resistant pathogens is growing, demanding for new and more effective antimicrobial strategies. Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) have been the focus of great interest as alternatives to antibiotics. Nisin, a naturally occurring AMP, possesses unique characteristics such as an uncommon structure, amphiphilic nature, low likelihood of promoting bacterial resistance, and strong bactericidal activity against a wide range of pathogenic microorganisms. Moreover, it displays low cytotoxicity and is considered safe for human consumption. Thus, nisin shows potential as an alternative antimicrobial treatment. However, certain physicochemical properties, including low solubility and stability at physiological pH, may hinder peptide’s efficacy in vivo. For this reason, the combination of nisin with other bioactive molecules has received considerable attention as a promising approach to enhance the peptide’s antimicrobial efficacy in clinical applications. This comprehensive review examines the effect of nisin when combined with other AMPs, traditional antibiotics, anticancer agents, natural extracts, biopolymers and nanomaterials. Additive and synergistic interactions are highlighted, as well as these molecules potential applications in the biomedical field, shedding a light on the future of these promising combinations.