NOVEL METABOLITES FROM CROCODILE GUT MICROBIOME
Abstract
Crocodiles thrive in unsanitary conditions, feed on rotten meat, are exposed to heavy metals such as arsenic, chromium, mercury, nickel, lead, selenium, endure high levels of radiation, are among the very few species to endure the catastrophic Cretaceous-Tertiary extinction event, and yet they can live up to a 100 years. Logically, we hypothesize that crocodiles have developed mechanisms to achieve such longevity while surviving under stressful conditions. We postulate that the microbial gut flora of crocodiles produce substances contributing to their “hardiness” and longevity. Our preliminary studies have already demonstrated that microbial gut flora of crocodile exhibit remarkable properties that can extend its life expectancy. Based on these exciting findings, the proposed work will identify and characterize novel molecule(s) from the gut microbiota of crocodiles. Active molecule(s) will be isolated and characterized using liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS). Employing bioassay-guided fractionation, the molecule(s) will be tested in vitro against a panel of human cells, to determine their effects on stress, ageing and longevity using various biomarkers. These studies are possible due to the availability of gut bacteria of crocodiles as well as human cells and molecular analytical tools at our disposal.
Document Details
- Document Type
- DoD Grant Award
- Publication Date
- Aug 11, 2021
- Source ID
- FA86552017004
Entities
People
- Ruqaiyyah Siddiqui
Organizations
- Air Force Office of Scientific Research
- American University of Sharjah
- United States Air Force