Your data on MRCVSonline
The nature of the services provided by Vision Media means that we might obtain certain information about you.
Please read our Data Protection and Privacy Policy for details.

In addition, (with your consent) some parts of our website may store a 'cookie' in your browser for the purposes of
functionality or performance monitoring.
Click here to manage your settings.
EmailIphone Application    Posted: 13th April 2017
If you would like to forward this story on to a friend, simply fill in the form below and click send.
Your friend's email:
Your email:
Your name:
 
 
Send Cancel

Komodo dragon blood shows promising antimicrobial properties
Komodo dragons eat the decaying flesh of dead animals and live in bacteria-rich environments. 
Scientists create synthetic peptide that helps to heal wounds

A novel way to kill antibiotic-resistant bacteria, inspired by the germ-fighting abilities of Komodo dragons, has been created by scientists in the US.

According to research published in the journal NPJ Biofilms and Microbiomes, the method kills antibiotic resistant bacteria whilst spurring the body’s cells to heal cuts faster.

The work is the result of a $7.57 million government contract to discover new bacterial infection-defeating compounds in the blood of Komodo dragons and crocodiles.

These reptiles eat the decaying flesh of dead animals and live in bacteria-rich environments, suggesting they have strong natural immunity.

“Synthetic germ-fighting peptides are a new approach to potentially defeat bacteria that have grown resistant to conventional antibiotics,” said microbiologist Monique van Hoek from George Mason University, Virginia.

“The antimicrobial peptides we’re tapping into represents millions of years of evolution in protecting immune systems from dangerous infections.”

The research is initially designed to help soldiers heal faster and protect them from biological weapons. Eventually, it could also be available in bandages sold in drug stores to help heal more mundane cuts and scrapes.

In the study, scientists analysed hundreds of peptides in the blood of a single Komodo dragon and discovered one that showed a promising combination of antimicrobial and anti-biofilm properties.

The researchers rearranged the peptide’s amino acids to create a modified, synthetic version. Named “DRAGN-1” in honour of the Komodo dragon, the peptide is the first Komodo-inspired peptide the team created in the lab from this research.

“The synthesised peptide DRGN-1 is not a Komodo dragon’s natural peptide,” Van Hoek said. “it’s been already to be stronger in terms of both potency and stability.”

The peptide is able to attack the sticky biofilm that protects the bacteria and helps them grow in wounds. After breaking down the biofilm barrier, the synthetic peptide kills the bacteria whilst simultaneously stimulating the patient’s cells to heal the wound.

“The next steps for DRGN-1 are to develop it into wound-healing products for veterinary medicine before moving to products designed for humans,” the researchers said.

Become a member or log in to add this story to your CPD history

Practices urged to audit neutering data

News Story 1
 RCVS Knowledge has called on vet practices to audit their post-operative neutering outcomes.

It follows the release of the 2024 NASAN benchmarking report, which collates data from neutering procedures performed on dogs, cats and rabbits.

The benchmarking report enables practices in the UK and Ireland to compare their post-operative outcomes to the national average. This includes the rate of patients lost to follow-up, which in 2024 increased to 23 per cent.

Anyone from the practice can submit the data using a free template. The deadline for next report is February 2026.

Visit the RCVS Knowledge website to complete an audit. 

Click here for more...
News Shorts
UK's BSE risk status downgraded

The WOAH has downgraded the UK's international risk status for BSE to 'negligible'.

Defra says that the UK's improved risk status recognises the reputation for having the highest standards for biosecurity. It adds that it demonstrates decades of rigorous animal control.

Outbreaks of Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy, also known as mad cow disease, have previously resulted in bans on Britain's beef exports.

The UK's new status could lead to expanded trade and better confidence in British beef.

Christine Middlemiss, the UK's chief veterinary officer, said: "WOAH's recognition of the UK as negligible risk for BSE is a significant milestone and is a testament to the UK's strong biosecurity measures and the hard work and vigilance of farmers and livestock keepers across the country who have all played their part in managing the spread of this disease.