One of the causes of colitis, Salmonella bacteria, can be suppressed by a newly discovered substance.

The National Marine Biodiversity Institute of Korea (Honam Regional Office) announced that a new peptide had been discovered in a study conducted with the College of Pharmacy at Chonnam National University, data bio company Insilicogen, and the Korea Food Research Institute. Peptides are protein fragments composed of 2–50 amino acids linked together and play an important role in metabolism and life functions, including immune regulation and tissue repair.

The peptide identified in this study effectively alleviated inflammation in the intestines caused by Salmonella infection and also protected the intestinal mucosa. Its efficacy in reducing intestinal diseases caused by Salmonella reached 89.17%, higher than that of ciprofloxacin, a widely used antibiotic, which recorded 87.78%.

Infectious colitis caused by Salmonella is a common disease, and treatment has recently become more difficult due to an increase in antibiotic-resistant strains. In particular, when livestock are infected, it delays growth, reduces feed efficiency, and increases mortality, thereby lowering livestock productivity and raising quarantine costs.

The experiment was conducted based on artificial intelligence (AI) predictions, enabling faster and more precise identification of drug candidate substances than with conventional methods. The research team used AI analysis technology on a large volume of genetic information obtained from wild organisms inhabiting islands and coastal areas to screen peptides predicted to have excellent antibacterial properties. Subsequent stepwise experimental verification allowed them to discover drug candidates more quickly than with existing search methods. Naturally occurring “antimicrobial peptides” are attracting attention as next-generation antimicrobial agents because they are effective even against antibiotic-resistant bacteria, have a low likelihood of inducing resistant strains, and show high biocompatibility.

Park Jin-young, Director of the National Marine Biodiversity Institute of Korea (Honam Regional Office), stated, “This study is a meaningful achievement in presenting a new alternative for intestinal diseases that are difficult to treat due to antibiotic-resistant bacteria,” adding, “The discovery of peptides derived from island and coastal wild organisms using AI is an important approach that can overcome the limitations of conventional drug development.” Park further noted, “We plan to expand the scope of application and continue additional research in preparation for commercialization potential.”

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