Characterization and Antimicrobial Spectrum of Bacteriocin-producing Pediococcus specie MS3 Isolated from Raw Milk

Abstract

Bacteriocin molecules are ribosomally synthesized peptides, which show antimicrobial activity against other bacteria belonging to the same species or across the genera. Pediococcus spp., are well-known for producing bacteriocin compounds which have important applications in the food and health sector. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the characteristics and understand the antibiotic spectrum of Pediococci species MS3 contributing to the advancements of novel antimicrobial agents. Thirty bacteriocin-producing pediococcal strains were isolated using the spread plate method on MRS agar from raw milk, cheese, yoghurt, and green leafy vegetables. Among all 30 isolates evaluated for bacteriocinogenic potential Pediococci MS3 isolated from raw milk was identified as the only pediocin producer. The Pediococcus species MS3 showed inhibitory effects against gram-negative bacteria isolated from clinical/environmental/food samples. The Pedicoccus MS3 showed noticeable activity against gram-positive, gram-negative and fungal species i.e. C. albicans, Candida species and S. cerevisiae. The findings were crucial to support the applications of bacteriocin-producing Pedioccoccus MS3 in food industries for food preservation and prevention of spoilage associated with bacteria and fungi. Future research can expand on current research findings to enhance the understanding of bacteriocin-producing Pediococcus MS3 against bacterial and fungal spores.