It is a known fact that honey kills bacteria, but the mechanism behind it has always been a mystery. Now scientists have cracked the riddle.
Scientists at the Academic Medical Center in Amsterdam have discovered that bees make a protein called defensin-1, which they add to the honey. This protein defensin-1 is the agent responsible for the antibacterial property of honey.
The new information also sheds light on the inner workings of honey bee immune systems. This could help us to breed healthier honey bees.
Scientists say honey-derived medicines might come in handy for prevention and treatment of infections caused by antibiotic-resistant bacteria.
Full details appear in July 2010 print edition of FASEB Journal.
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