Antibacterial potency of Greek honey against multidrug-resistant pathogens and biofilms
Research evaluating the antibacterial activity of genuine Greek honey against multidrug-resistant Gram-negative bacteria and biofilm-embedded microorganisms. The study combines physicochemical characterization, in vitro antimicrobial testing, high-throughput microbiota analysis, and in vivo anti-inflammatory validation to position rare honeys as novel natural antimicrobial agents.
Overview
Antimicrobial resistance is one of the most pressing challenges in modern medicine, and the rapid evolution of carbapenemases such as KPC and VIM has compromised the effectiveness of conventional antibiotics. This research program investigates genuine Greek honey as a natural alternative antimicrobial agent, evaluating its activity against multidrug-resistant pathogenic bacteria and biofilm-embedded microorganisms. By combining physicochemical characterization, microbiological testing, and in vivo anti-inflammatory validation, the project aims to establish rare honeys as credible candidates for novel pharmaceutical and clinical applications.
Technical specifications
Physicochemical characterization:
- Measurement of pH, hydrogen peroxide content, free acidity, and lactonic acid
- Quantification of total phenols, total flavonoids, free radical scavenging activity, tyrosinase enzyme inhibitory activity, and kojic acid
Antimicrobial testing:
- Well diffusion method using consecutive dilutions of honey against clinical isolates
- Determination of minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) by broth microdilution (CLSI standards)
- Evaluation against KPC- and VIM-producing multidrug-resistant Gram-negative isolates
- Comparison with isothiazolinone, plant extracts, essential oils, and standard antibiotics
- Assessment of microbial biofilm attachment capacity and removal activity
Microbiota analysis:
- High-throughput amplicon sequencing identifying 335 distinct taxa within honey microbiota
In vivo validation:
- LPS-driven inflammation model
- Cecal-slurry-induced peritonitis model in mice
Technology readiness level
The project is in an active research and validation phase. Physicochemical parameters, antimicrobial screening, microbiota profiling, and initial in vivo anti-inflammatory studies have already been conducted. Future validation over an estimated 1–2 years will extend testing to biofilm removal, comparative benchmarking against conventional antimicrobials, and confirmatory in vivo efficacy. The team is seeking partners who can provide animal model facilities, consumables, specialized equipment, and funding for key personnel to advance the program toward translational and commercial outcomes.
About Democritus University Of Thrace
Democritus University of Thrace is a comprehensive public research university with a four-campus footprint in Northern Greece and a strong applied orientation. Industry engages through campus-based laboratories and prototyping facilities, shared instrumentation, and collaboration spaces embedded across its engineering and health precincts. Integration with a university hospital supports clinical studies and translation, while the region’s port, rail, and border crossings connect partners to European and Southeast European supply chains. Research is backed by competitive European and national funding, including Horizon Europe and structural funds. A dedicated technology transfer office and the university’s research accounts office streamline IP, contracting, and startup formation.
delivered to your inbox.