The blood of a marine creature can kill superbugs: find out which one it is (video).

Oysters continuously filter bacteria from the water, which is why scientists believe they are a promising subject for the search for potential antibiotics. Researchers now think that oysters could aid in the global fight against antibiotic-resistant bacteria, as reported by Popular Science.

In a new study published in the journal PLOS ONE, scientists identified a protein in the blood, or hemolymph, of the Sydney rock oyster (Saccostrea glomerata), which appears to kill bacteria and can also enhance the effectiveness of certain antibiotics. The authors of the study believe that this protein could be utilized to develop new strategies for combating bacterial infections.

Over the past 50 years, bacteria have developed resistance to many traditional antibiotics used to treat diseases, including pneumonia and streptococcal throat infections. This is largely due to the overuse and misuse of antibiotics. In a study conducted last year, researchers found that antibiotic resistance in bacteria could lead to the deaths of 40 million people by mid-century.

As a result, the discovery and development of new antibiotics is one of the most critical areas of global research. Scientists have previously looked to saltwater bivalves and other organisms in search of solutions to combat bacteria. Components from oysters have already been used to treat respiratory infections, and it has also been shown that the blood of these animals exhibits antiviral activity.

According to Kirsten Benkendorff, a co-author of the study and interdisciplinary marine scientist at Southern Cross University in Australia, over 90% of existing antibiotics have been derived from nature in one way or another, including penicillin. This is because most organisms possess natural defense mechanisms to protect themselves from infection.

During the new research, scientists discovered a protein in the blood of the Sydney rock oyster that suppresses Streptococcus pneumoniae. This infection is known to cause respiratory infections in humans, including tonsillitis and pneumonia, and is a leading cause of death in children under 5 years old.

Bacteria that cause infections often evade the effects of antibiotics and the immune system by forming biofilms for protection. These biofilms are essentially communities of microorganisms, and the new research indicates that the protein from oyster blood can kill bacterial pathogens within these biofilms.

Benkendorff stated that she and her colleagues found that the protein from oyster blood prevents biofilm formation and can also disrupt existing biofilms. As a result, bacteria become more vulnerable to antibiotics at lower doses.

The researchers also discovered that these proteins are not toxic to human lung cells, meaning they can be optimized to create a safe yet effective dosage. Unfortunately, an antibiotic based on the protein from oyster blood is not expected to be available anytime soon; however, the team believes that their discovery is a significant step towards developing new treatment methods.

This material is for informational purposes only and does not contain advice that may affect your health. If you are experiencing issues, please consult a specialist.