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Solutions that go beyond food

Applications of novel biomolecules from black soldier fly (BSF) in the bio-medical field

Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs)

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  1. Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) as an innovative and potent alternative to antibiotics with their broad spectrum of action against bacteria, mycobacteria, fungus, viruses, and cancer cells. (Hu et al. 2013).. Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) can have various applications:

  1. Antimicrobial activity: AMP like defensins is active against Gram–negative bacteria such as Escherichia coli, but mainly against Gram-positive bacteria, such as Staphylococcus aureus, Micrococcus luteus, Bacillus subtilis, Bacillus thuringiensis, Aerococcus viridians and Bacillus megaterium (Moretta et al. 2020). Some AMPs have antifungal properties as well. (Moretta et al. 2020)

  2. Against antibiotic-resistant pathogens: For treatment of bacterial infections, including those caused by antibiotic-resistant pathogens such as Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) and carbapenem-resistant Enterobacteriaceae (CRE) (Xia et al 2021).

  3. Tissue Recovery: Defensin-like peptides 2 and 4 have been demonstrated to minimize dispersed bacterial burden by over 95% in the kidneys and spleen, lower serum levels of proinflammatory cytokines, increase anti-inflammatory cytokine levels, and repair injuries in the lung and spleen (Li et al. 2017). 

  4. Immunological modulators: AMPs impact on all aspects of the immune system, including humoral and cellular immunity. AMPs have direct effects on neutrophils, monocytes, dendritic cells, T lymphocytes, and mast cells, all of which participate in innate immunity. They work indirectly on B-lymphocytes, increasing the induction of antigen-specific immunity, which eventually leads to the activation of adaptive immunity. 

Chitin and its derivatives in the pharmaceutical industry:

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Chitin, a polysaccharide found in the exoskeleton of black soldier fly (BSF) larvae, holds significant importance due to its versatile properties and various biomedical applications. Chitin & its derivatives have various applications:

  1. Antimicrobial Bio- Agent: Chitin exhibits inherent antimicrobial properties due to its structure, which can inhibit the growth of bacteria and fungi. At concentrations over 0.025%, chitosan inhibits the development of Escherichia coli. Chitosan can also inhibit other microbial species like Fusarium, Alternaria, and Helminthosporium.

  2. Recovery Applications: Chitin and its derivative chitosan have hemostatic properties and promote wound healing by providing a scaffold for tissue regeneration and modulating the inflammatory response. It can be used in wound dressings, bandages, and scaffolds for tissue engineering.

  3. Drug Delivery: Chitosan is biocompatible and mucoadhesive, making it suitable for drug delivery systems. It can be formulated into nanoparticles, microparticles, or hydrogels for controlled release of drugs and therapeutic agents. Water-soluble carboxymethyl chitin (CMC) were employed in drug delivery applications.

  4. Tissue Engineering: Chitin-based materials can be fabricated into tubular forms, can be successfully applied in tissue engineering of nerves and blood vessels as a template for cells. It has  applications in tissue engineering for regenerating bone, cartilage, skin, and other tissues.

  5. Anti-thrombogenic and haemostatic materials: Chitin and its derivatives exhibit hemostatic and anti-thrombogenic properties that make them valuable materials for biomedical applications, including wound dressings, surgical hemostats, and blood-contacting devices. 

  6. Anti-inflammatory Agents: It also possess anti-inflammatory properties, which can help alleviate inflammation-associated conditions such as arthritis, inflammatory bowel disease, and skin disorders.  

Antitumor activity: Antitumor activity has been reported by chitosan and its derivatives. A lower tumor necrosis factor concentration in the blood of the dogs was reported fed with 2% H. illucens larvae feed.

Antioxidants

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  1. Black soldier fly (BSF) larvae and their derivatives contain a variety of antioxidants, which are compounds that help neutralize harmful free radicals and reduce oxidative stress in the body. Some of the antioxidants found in BSF larvae include:

  2. Phenolic Compounds: BSF larvae contain phenolic compounds such as flavonoids, phenolic acids, and tannins, which possess antioxidant properties. These compounds scavenge free radicals, inhibit lipid peroxidation, and protect cells from oxidative damage.

  3. Vitamins: BSF larvae are rich in vitamins, including vitamin E (tocopherols and tocotrienols) and vitamin C (ascorbic acid), which are potent antioxidants. These vitamins act as free radical scavengers and regenerate other antioxidants in the body, such as glutathione and coenzyme Q10.

  4. Carotenoids: Carotenoids are pigments found in BSF larvae that possess antioxidant activity. Carotenoids such as β-carotene, lutein, and zeaxanthin protect cells from oxidative damage caused by reactive oxygen species (ROS) and ultraviolet (UV) radiation.

  5. Enzymes: BSF larvae produce antioxidant enzymes such as superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase, and glutathione peroxidase, which help detoxify ROS and maintain cellular redox balance. These enzymes play a crucial role in protecting cells from oxidative stress-induced damage.

  6. Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids (PUFAs): BSF larvae contain omega-3 and omega-6 PUFAs, such as linoleic acid and linolenic acid, which have antioxidant properties. These fatty acids scavenge free radicals, reduce inflammation, and protect cell membranes from oxidative damage.

Probiotics applications:

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Probiotics derived from BSF larvae may help improve digestive health by enhancing nutrient absorption, supporting gut barrier function, and reducing gastrointestinal symptoms such as bloating, gas, and diarrhea.

  1. Beneficial bacteria such as lactic acid bacteria and Bacillus species, found in BSF gut can potentially confer digestive health benefits when consumed.

  1. Immune Regulation: Probiotics from BSF larvae have the potential to modulate immune responses in the gut and systemic circulation, contributing to immune regulation and homeostasis. They can stimulate the production of anti-inflammatory cytokines and enhance the activity of immune cells, promoting overall immune function.

Prebiotic Application:

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  1. Dietary Fiber Source: BSF larvae are rich in dietary fiber, including chitin and chitosan, which serve as prebiotics in the gut. Fermentation of dietary fiber by gut bacteria produces short-Chain Fatty Acids (SCFAs) such as acetate, propionate, and butyrate provide energy for colonocytes, support gut barrier function, and exert anti-inflammatory effects, contributing to improved gut health.

  2. Promotion of Beneficial Microorganisms: Prebiotics derived from BSF larvae selectively stimulate the growth and activity of beneficial bacteria such as Bifidobacteria and Lactobacilli in the gut. This promotes a more balanced and diverse gut microbiota composition, which is associated with improved gut health and overall well-being.

  3. Metabolic Health Benefits: Consuming BSF larvae or their derivatives as prebiotics may have metabolic health benefits, including improved glucose metabolism, lipid profile, and appetite regulation. Prebiotics can modulate gut hormone secretion, which regulates energy intake and metabolism.

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