Evaluation of Antimicrobial Spectrum and Cytotoxic Activity of Pleurocidin for Food Applications

Pleurocidin, an antimicrobial peptide originally isolated from the winter flounder (Pleuronecetes americanus), was evaluated for potential use in food application. Eighteen microbial species, including yeasts, molds, and foodborne bacterial pathogens, were evaluated. Liquid‐based minimal inhibitory concentration (MIC) technique was used to test antimicrobial activity of the synthetic peptide. Hemolytic and cytotoxic effects on human cells were investigated using colorimetric analysis. Pleurocidin was found to be effective against foodborne organisms including Vibrio parahemolyticus (MIC of 69 μ M ), Escherichia coli O157:H7 (5.3 μ M ), Listeria monocytogenes (23 μ M ), Saccharomyces cerevisiae (5.5 μ M ), and Penicillium expansum (20.6 μ M ). Antimicrobial activity occurred without significant hemolytic or cytotoxic effect on human intestinal cells.