Jerusalem, March 6
Israeli researchers have discovered a surprising immune defense role of the proteasome, a cellular structure known for degrading and recycling proteins.
The study, published in Nature, could inspire new strategies against antibiotic-resistant infections, news agency reported.
The study, led by the team from Weizmann Institute of Science (WIS), found that when breaking down old proteins, the proteasome constantly and regularly releases antimicrobial peptides, news agency reported.
These antimicrobial peptides are considered vital components of the body's first line of defense as they attack and kill bacteria.
Experiments showed that human cells with active proteasomes effectively controlled bacterial growth, while blocking proteasome activity allowed infections to spread, WIS said.
In infected mice, proteasome-produced peptides reduced bacteria numbers, decreased tissue damage, and even improved survival rates, performing as effectively as strong antibiotics in clinical use.
The team identified over 270,000 potential antibacterial peptides hidden within 92 per cent of human proteins.