Polylysine

Details:

**ε-Poly-L-lysine (ε-PL)** is a natural, biodegradable polymer of L-lysine produced by microbial fermentation (e.g., *Streptomyces albulus*). It has broad applications due to its **antimicrobial, biodegradable, and non-toxic** properties.  

### **Key Applications of ε-Poly-L-lysine**  

#### **1. Food Preservation (Primary Use)**  
- **Natural antimicrobial agent** against bacteria, fungi, and some viruses.  
- Effective against:  
  - *Gram-positive* (e.g., *Listeria*, *Staphylococcus*)  
  - *Gram-negative* (e.g., *E. coli*, *Salmonella*)  
  - *Yeasts & molds* (e.g., *Aspergillus*, *Candida*)  
- **Used in**:  
  - Sushi, cooked rice, noodles (extends shelf life).  
  - Meat, dairy, and vegetable products.  
  - Beverages (prevents spoilage).  
- **Approved as a food additive** (Japan, US, EU, China).  

#### **2. Medical & Pharmaceutical Applications**  
- **Antimicrobial coatings** for medical devices (catheters, implants).  
- **Drug delivery** (forms nanoparticles for controlled release).  
- **Wound dressings** (prevents infections).  

#### **3. Cosmetics & Personal Care**  
- **Preservative** in shampoos, lotions (replaces parabens).  
- **Anti-acne** agent (inhibits *P. acnes*).  

#### **4. Agriculture**  
- **Biodegradable pesticide/fungicide** (reduces chemical use).  
- **Edible coatings** for fruits/vegetables to prevent rot.  

#### **5. Biotechnology & Nanotechnology**  
- **Gene/drug carrier** (cationic property binds DNA/RNA).  
- **Nanoparticle stabilization** (used in biosensors).  

### **Advantages of ε-Poly-L-lysine**  
? **Biodegradable & non-toxic** (safe for humans).  
? **Heat-stable** (effective after cooking).  
? **Synergistic with other preservatives** (e.g., nisin, chitosan).  

### **Mechanism of Action**  
- **Disrupts microbial cell membranes** (electrostatic interaction with negatively charged surfaces).  
- **Inhibits enzyme activity** in pathogens.