<b>Bacteriocin-like inhibitory substance in aquaculture: a classic method of protein precipitation for a new aplicability

Abstract

Techniques to decrease losses from bacterial diseases are always important to improve the fish production. The use of antagonistic substances (bacteriocins) has been proven to be a viable option. The aim of this study was to evaluate different methods of purification for bacteriocin like inhibitory substances (BLIS). For the purification process, we isolated and used two Gram-positive bacilli that produce antagonistic substances for pathogens in aquaculture. Tests for detection of interfering factors were also performed. After the confirmation that the antagonistic action was due the BLIS activity, we carried out the purification methods. The methods tested were: cell free supernatant, acid extraction and ammonium sulfate precipitation at two concentrations (20 and 50%). Salmonella Tiphy CFP/IAL1472 and Aeromonas hydrophila (isolated in a tilapia production environment) were used as indicators of the efficiency of extracts in controlling pathogenic potentials. Ammonium sulfate precipitation at 50% was the most appropriate for purifying the antagonistic substance for both indicators. The extracts of the two isolates remained active for 22 days at 25ºC. These are promising results regarding the water and fish health without the use of antibiotics, in this manner being a safer environmental practice.