Terminalia spp. may combat bacterial foodborne illness in Malaysia.
Journal name: The Malaysian Journal of Medical Sciences
Original article title: Bacterial Foodborne Illness in Malaysia: Terminalia spp. as a Potential Resource for Treating Infections and Countering Antibiotic Resistance
The Malaysian Journal of Medical Sciences (MJMS) is a peer-reviewed, open-access journal published online at least six times a year. It covers all aspects of medical sciences and prioritizes high-quality research.
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Original source:
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Matthew James Cheesman, Naveen Kumar Hawala Shivashekaregowda, Ian Edwin Cock
The Malaysian Journal of Medical Sciences:
(A peer-reviewed, open-access journal)
Full text available for: Bacterial Foodborne Illness in Malaysia: Terminalia spp. as a Potential Resource for Treating Infections and Countering Antibiotic Resistance
Year: 2023 | Doi: 10.21315/mjms2023.30.2.4
Copyright (license): CC BY 4.0
Download the PDF file of the original publication
Summary of article contents:
Introduction
Acute diarrhoea has emerged as a significant public health issue in Malaysia, with over 13.5 million reported cases annually. Foodborne bacterial pathogens, primarily responsible for these cases, lead to prolonged illness and increased mortality rates, thereby imposing considerable economic burdens. The rise of antibiotic resistance among various bacterial strains necessitates the urgent development of new drugs and therapies. Recent interest in plants as alternative sources of antibiotics has gained momentum, particularly in response to the increasing prevalence of such diseases in Malaysia. Various species of Terminalia, abundant in therapeutic phytochemicals with antibacterial properties, remain largely underexplored in this context.
Potential of Terminalia Species in Antibiotic Development
The potential of Malaysian Terminalia species as sources of new antibacterial therapies has been highlighted through research showing their phytochemical richness and therapeutic capabilities. Specific Terminalia species, like Terminalia catappa and Terminalia citrina, have demonstrated significant antibacterial activity against various foodborne pathogens. These plants contain bioactive compounds that can disrupt bacterial cell membranes, inhibit biofilm formation, and even act synergistically with conventional antibiotics, enhancing their effectiveness against resistant strains. Continued investigation into these species may uncover novel antibacterial agents that can mitigate the burden of foodborne diseases in Malaysia and provide solutions to the rising challenge of antibiotic resistance.
Conclusion
Malaysian Terminalia species represent a valuable yet still underutilized resource in the search for new antibacterial therapies. Despite some promising research, substantial work is still needed to validate their effectiveness, explore their potential as food preservatives, and standardize research protocols to enable a clearer understanding of their antibacterial properties. Harnessing the therapeutic potential of Terminalia plants could significantly alleviate the increasing hospitalizations due to foodborne illnesses and combat the escalating issue of antibiotic resistance, thereby contributing positively to public health outcomes in Malaysia.
FAQ section (important questions/answers):
What is the current state of diarrhoeal diseases in Malaysia?
Diarrhoeal diseases are a significant public health issue in Malaysia, with over 13.5 million annual cases reported. Foodborne bacterial pathogens are major contributors, leading to prolonged illnesses and increased patient mortality.
Why are new antibacterial therapies needed in Malaysia?
The rising incidence of diarrhoea caused by foodborne pathogens and increasing antibiotic resistance necessitate urgent exploration for new drugs and therapies to combat these issues effectively.
What role do Terminalia species play in addressing antibiotic resistance?
Terminalia species, native to Malaysia, contain therapeutic phytochemicals with proven antibacterial properties. Research into these plants could lead to new antibacterial therapies as alternatives to conventional antibiotics.
What is the significance of antibiotic resistance in foodborne pathogens?
Antibiotic resistance in foodborne pathogens exacerbates health issues, leading to longer illness durations, higher mortality rates, and increased economic burdens on healthcare systems, making it crucial to explore alternative treatments.
Glossary definitions and references:
Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “Terminalia spp. may combat bacterial foodborne illness in Malaysia.”. This list explains important keywords that occur in this article and links it to the glossary for a better understanding of that concept in the context of Ayurveda and other topics.
1) Food:
Food is a fundamental human need, serving as a source of nourishment and energy. In the context of the abstract, foodborne pathogens are highlighted, which cause significant health issues, particularly acute diarrhoea in Malaysia. The rise in food-related illnesses underscores the importance of food safety and hygiene as public health priorities.
2) Antibiotic (Antibacterial):
Antibiotics are medications that combat bacterial infections by inhibiting their growth or killing them. The relevance of antibiotics in the abstract is tied to the alarming rise in antibiotic resistance among foodborne pathogens in Malaysia. This highlights the urgent need to find alternative approaches to infection treatment through new therapies or compounds.
3) Aureus:
Aureus, often referring to Staphylococcus aureus, is a pathogenic bacterium commonly found on skin and mucosal surfaces. Its relevance stems from its association with food poisoning and rising antibiotic resistance, leading to food safety concerns and challenges in treatment. This organism is significant in the context of foodborne disease outbreaks.
4) Activity:
Activity in this context refers to the biological effects exhibited by various substances. The abstract discusses the antibacterial activities of Terminalia spp. extracts against pathogenic bacteria, important for evaluating their potential as therapeutic agents. Understanding the activity of these extracts is vital for the development of effective treatments against infections.
5) Phytochemical:
Phytochemicals are bioactive compounds derived from plants that often possess health benefits, including antimicrobial properties. The abstract discusses the rich phytochemical content of Terminalia spp., which may be leveraged to develop new antibacterial therapies. Research into phytochemicals is essential for exploring alternatives in combating antibiotic-resistant pathogens.
6) Species:
Species refers to specific groups of organisms that share common characteristics. In the abstract, various species of Terminalia are studied for their potential as antibacterial agents against foodborne pathogens. Understanding the relevance of these species can aid in the development of new therapeutics and improve public health outcomes.
7) Disease:
Disease refers to a pathological condition that disrupts normal bodily functions. Acute diarrhoea, as discussed in the abstract, poses a significant public health concern in Malaysia, primarily caused by foodborne pathogens. Addressing the burden of disease emphasizes the importance of developing effective preventive and therapeutic measures.
8) Study (Studying):
Study refers to systematic research conducted to understand a particular subject. The abstract outlines a review of existing literature regarding foodborne pathogens and their resistance profiles, highlighting the knowledge gaps that need to be filled to inform future research directions on antibacterial therapies derived from plants.
9) Flavonoid:
Flavonoids are a class of phytochemicals known for their antioxidant and antimicrobial properties. In the context of the abstract, flavonoids from Terminalia spp. are relevant due to their potential role in combating foodborne pathogens. Understanding flavonoids' mechanisms and applications is crucial for developing novel antibacterial therapies.
10) Thong:
Thong is likely a reference to an author associated with the research study. In research contexts, authors like Thong contribute to the collective understanding of health issues. Their work can help shape strategies for addressing important public health challenges such as antibiotic resistance and foodborne diseases.
11) Table:
Table refers to a structured format used to present data clearly. In the abstract, it likely summarizes the phytochemical content and antibacterial activities of Terminalia species. Tables serve as vital tools in research, allowing for rapid comparison and reference of important information within a study's findings.
12) Drug:
Drug refers to a substance used to diagnose, treat, or prevent disease. The abstract emphasizes the urgent need for new drugs derived from plant sources like Terminalia to combat rising resistance in pathogens. Exploring plant-based drugs is vital for developing effective treatment options in infectious diseases.
13) Water:
Water is fundamental for life and essential for maintaining health. The abstract discusses its role as a potential vector for foodborne pathogens leading to acute diarrhoea, illustrating the importance of water quality and sanitation in public health. Safe drinking water is critical to prevent diarrheal diseases.
14) Rich (Rch):
Rich refers to an abundance of a particular quality or substance. In the context of the abstract, Malaysian Terminalia species are described as rich in phytochemicals known for their therapeutic potential. This richness supports the exploration of these plants as new sources of antibacterial compounds.
15) Milk:
Milk is a nutritional food product often associated with foodborne pathogens. In the abstract, contamination of milk by bacteria such as Escherichia coli is acknowledged as a public health concern in Malaysia. Ensuring the safety of milk is critical in preventing foodborne diseases.
16) India:
India is mentioned as a geographic context relevant to the discussion of antibiotic resistance and bacterial pathogens. The global nature of antibiotic resistance necessitates consideration of emerging patterns, as similar challenges are faced in regions like India, highlighting the shared public health concerns between countries.
17) Rice (Rce):
Rice is a staple food commonly consumed across various cultures. In the abstract, its potential contamination by foodborne pathogens poses a risk for diarrheal diseases. Ensuring safe preparation and handling of rice is crucial for preventing foodborne illnesses that contribute to public health challenges.
18) Meat:
Meat is an important source of protein but can harbor foodborne pathogens. In the context of the abstract, bacteria isolated from meat products are discussed concerning food safety and public health. Hence, proper handling and cooking practices are essential to prevent meat-related foodborne illnesses.
19) Medicine:
Medicine refers to the science of diagnosing, treating, and preventing diseases. The pursuit of new medicines, particularly from plant sources, is emphasized in the abstract as a crucial strategy to address the growing crisis of antibiotic resistance and the need for effective treatments against pathogenic bacteria.
20) Silver:
Silver is mentioned in relation to its use in antimicrobial applications, such as silver nanoparticles derived from Terminalia extracts. The significance lies in exploring alternative antimicrobial agents that could complement or replace conventional antibiotics, providing potential solutions in combating resistant strains of bacteria.
21) Chanda (Chamda):
Chanda is likely a reference to an author involved in research discussed in the abstract. Author contributions are significant in the context of scientific discourse, driving knowledge advancement in areas such as antibacterial activities of plants. Each author’s insights can influence or reshape public health strategies.
22) Yamuna:
Yamuna is a river in India that has been the focus of studies on environmental contamination and antimicrobial resistance. Mentioning it underscores the global nature of antibiotic resistance affecting water bodies, signifying the indirect effects these environmental factors have on public health and safety.
23) Cock:
Cock refers to an author associated with the studies discussed in the abstract. Authorial contributions are vital for advancing research understanding of medicinal plants like Terminalia, emphasizing the importance of collaboration in addressing public health challenges related to foodborne pathogens and antibiotic resistance.
24) Fish:
Fish is a common dietary item but is also susceptible to contamination by pathogens, as mentioned in the abstract. Understanding the safety of fish is essential for public health, particularly in regions where it is a staple food, as it may lead to foodborne illnesses.
25) Wall:
Wall may refer to the cell wall of bacteria, which is a target for many antibacterial compounds. The abstract discusses how phytochemicals disrupt bacterial membranes or cell walls, which indicates their mechanisms of action against pathogenic bacteria, essential knowledge for developing effective antibacterial therapies.
26) Village:
Village is a term indicating rural settings where health and sanitation issues can be pronounced. The abstract begins with a discussion on diarrheal diseases in Malaysia, suggesting that access to clean water and hygiene in villages can significantly influence public health outcomes regarding foodborne illnesses.
27) Quality:
Quality refers to the standard of something, in this case, the quality of food and water. In the context of the abstract, ensuring high food and water quality is paramount in preventing foodborne diseases, which can significantly impact public health, especially in areas with high infection rates.
28) Hygiene (Hygienic):
Hygiene involves practices aimed at maintaining health and preventing disease, notably through cleanliness. The abstract highlights hygiene as a critical factor in preventing foodborne illnesses and stresses the importance of promoting hygiene practices to reduce the incidence of acute diarrhoea in Malaysia.
29) Science (Scientific):
Science is the systematic study of the structure and behavior of the physical and natural world. The abstract reflects scientific efforts to understand foodborne pathogens, antibiotic resistance, and the potential of plant-derived therapies, emphasizing a science-based approach to tackle public health issues.
30) Street:
Street may refer to environments where food is prepared and sold, impacting food safety. In discussing foodborne pathogens from street food, the abstract points to the need for stringent food safety measures in public spaces to protect consumers from foodborne illnesses.
31) Valley:
Valley could refer to areas where bacteria are researched or found, including urban settings where food safety might be compromised. This context underlines the relationship between geographic locations and public health challenges regarding foodborne pathogens and antibiotic resistance.
32) Genu:
Genu might refer to a specific genus of organisms, signifying the importance of classification in the study of plants. The focus on the genus highlights the need to categorize plants like Terminalia accurately in the search for antimicrobial properties against foodborne pathogens.
33) Sah:
Shah is likely an author contributing to the research discussed. The inclusion of authors' names presents essential contributions to the discourse in research literature, emphasizing collaboration and the collective effort to address pressing issues like antibiotic resistance and food safety.
34) Tree:
Tree symbolizes the natural source from which plant extracts, such as those from Terminalia species, are derived. The abstract discusses the potential of such trees in combating antibiotic-resistant pathogens, showcasing the intersection of nature and medicine in addressing health concerns.
35) Goat milk:
Goat milk is highlighted in the abstract due to health and safety concerns associated with its microbial contamination. This underscores the importance of monitoring and improving sanitation practices within the dairy industry to prevent foodborne illnesses related to dairy products.
36) Transmission:
Transmission refers to the spread of pathogens that lead to disease. The abstract discusses how pathogens can be transmitted through contaminated food and water, emphasizing the need for preventive measures to reduce the incidence of foodborne diseases, particularly in vulnerable populations.
37) Accumulation (Accumulating, Accumulate):
Accumulation suggests the build-up of harmful substances, such as antibiotic resistance genes in pathogens. In the context of the abstract, addressing bacterial resistance accumulation is crucial for public health, indicating the ongoing challenge in managing and treating infections effectively.
38) Developing:
Developing refers to the process of creating new solutions or methods. The abstract emphasizes developing new antibacterial therapies sourced from plants like Terminalia, highlighting the need for innovative approaches to address rising antibiotic resistance and improve health outcomes.
39) Suffering:
Suffering refers to the health impacts experienced by individuals affected by diseases. The abstract acknowledges the burden of diarrhoea and antibiotic resistance in Malaysia, emphasizing the urgent need for effective interventions to alleviate the suffering caused by foodborne pathogens.
40) Kokila:
Kokila likely represents an author associated with the discussed research, highlighting the collective efforts of researchers in tackling public health issues. The contributions of individuals in collaborative research are essential in generating insights and solutions for addressing health challenges.
41) Sharada (Sarada, Sara-da):
Sarada is probably an author mentioned in the research context. The inclusion of authors emphasizes the collaborative nature of scientific research, which is crucial for exploring new antibacterial agents from plants to address the growing problem of antibiotic-resistant infections.
42) Mahmud:
Mahmud seems to refer to an author contributing to this research. Mentioning authors highlights their insights and roles in expanding knowledge regarding the roles of plants in medicine, particularly in developing alternative treatments for bacterial infections.
43) Animal:
Animal refers to living organisms from which certain pathogens can be transmitted to humans, particularly through food products. The abstract emphasizes the role of animals in the epidemiology of foodborne diseases, highlighting the need for strict health measures in food sources.
44) Indian:
Indian may refer to studies or contexts relevant to antibiotic resistance and foodborne pathogens discussed in the abstract. The comparison of public health findings across regions underscores the global nature of these issues and the shared responsibility in tackling antibiotic resistance.
45) Delhi:
Delhi, a metropolitan region in India, serves as a context for discussing food safety challenges and antibiotic resistance. Including geographic locations emphasizes the global public health crisis regarding foodborne pathogens and the need for coordinated efforts to improve safety standards.
46) Kumar:
Kumar appears to be an author involved in the research discussed. The contributions of researchers named Kumar are important in advancing the collective understanding of health issues such as foodborne pathogens and antibiotic resistance, ultimately guiding future research efforts.
47) Cina:
China is mentioned in the context of highlighting the global challenges posed by foodborne pathogens and antibiotic resistance. Including multiple countries signifies the shared public health risks faced worldwide and the importance of international collaboration in addressing these issues.
48) Ravi (Ravin):
Ravi likely refers to an author of the research within the abstract, illustrating the importance of individual contributions to scientific inquiry. Their research plays a significant role in exploring solutions to combat antibiotic resistance through plant-derived therapies.
49) Goni:
Goni probably refers to an author who has contributed insights into the research shared in the abstract. Contributions from various researchers are vital to advancing the understanding of challenges related to antibiotic resistance and foodborne pathogens in public health.
50) Mudi (Munumgu):
Mudi may refer to an author pertinent in the context of the research addressed. The collective knowledge and research contributions of individuals like Mudi foster advancements in the understanding of foodborne diseases and the search for alternative therapeutics.
51) Shosha (Sosa):
Sosa is likely an author contributing to the research discussed in the abstract. The importance of each author underlines the collaborative efforts required in scientific research to tackle significant public health challenges like foodborne diseases and antibiotic resistance.
52) Cai (Caí):
Chai likely represents an author involved in the scientific research discussed. Authorial contributions are integral to the body of knowledge in current health issues, emphasizing the ongoing efforts of researchers in advancing strategies to mitigate public health risks.
53) New Delhi:
New Delhi is a significant urban territory, linking to discussions on antibiotic resistance and public health concerns in densely populated areas. Its inclusion emphasizes the multifaceted nature of health issues influenced by urbanization, necessitating effective health interventions.
54) Momordica charantia:
Momordica charantia, or bitter melon, is a plant often noted for its medicinal properties. The reference reflects the exploration of various plant extracts, including those from Terminalia, in the search for new antibacterial agents to treat resistant pathogens.
55) Surrounding:
Surrounding implies the environment in which discussions on food safety and antibiotic resistance occur. This context highlights the broader implications of health practices in communities and reinforces the need for comprehensive strategies addressing public health issues.
56) Knowledge:
Knowledge signifies the information and understanding gained through research and studies. In the abstract, acquiring knowledge about the phytochemical composition and antibacterial properties of Terminalia species is crucial for discovering new treatment strategies against foodborne pathogens.
57) Buffalo (Buffaloes):
Buffalo might refer to animals that can harbor pathogens affecting human health. The significance of buffalo in discussions on foodborne disease emphasizes the interconnectivity between animal health, food safety, and public health efforts in preventing zoonotic infections.
58) Falling:
Falling could refer to the declining health status that may arise due to factors like foodborne disease outbreaks. In the context of public health, addressing these declines is critical to ensure the health of populations at risk from infections.
59) Chang:
Chang likely refers to an author who contributed to the research referenced in the abstract. Such contributions highlight the importance of collaborative efforts in questioning existing knowledge and generating new insights in public health research.
60) Rules:
Rules denote guidelines and regulations meant to safeguard public health. In reference to food safety and handling practices, rules established ensure the prevention of foodborne diseases and minimize risks associated with consumption of contaminated products.
61) Death:
Death signifies the severe consequences resulting from untreated infections or foodborne diseases. The mention underscores the urgency of addressing public health challenges like acute diarrhoea and antibiotic resistance and implementing effective preventative measures.
62) Alam (Alaṁ):
Alam likely refers to a scholar involved in the context of the research. The mention of scholars and their contributions to research underscores the collaborative approach necessary to adequately address complex public health issues related to infectious diseases.
63) Beta:
Beta often denotes a type or group, particularly in scientific contexts where various classifications are made. Referring to beta-lactam antibiotics in discussions about antibiotic resistance highlights the need for understanding classifications in developing effective therapies against resistant bacteria.
64) Pose:
Pose indicates the act of presenting a challenge or problem. In the context of the abstract, it refers to the challenges posed by foodborne pathogens and antibiotic resistance, highlighting the necessity for urgent scientific investigation and solution development.
65) Line:
Line can refer to various contexts, in this case, possibly relating to a lineage of bacterial resistance or the bacterial cell wall. Understanding the biology and lineage of bacterial resistance is vital for developing effective treatment strategies.
66) Post:
Post might refer to the aftermath of events or research findings. In public health, assessing the post-outbreak scenarios and outcomes is crucial for improving future responses to foodborne disease outbreaks and enhancing antibiotic stewardship.
Other Science Concepts:
Discover the significance of concepts within the article: ‘Terminalia spp. may combat bacterial foodborne illness in Malaysia.’. Further sources in the context of Science might help you critically compare this page with similair documents:
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Concepts being referred in other categories, contexts and sources.
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