Antibacterial Activity of Apis Mellifera and Vespula Vulgaris Venom Against Selected Antibiotic – Resistant Pathogens
Author : Enem Simon
Abstract : Objective: The increasing prevalence of antibacterial resistance has necessitated the search for novel antibacterial agents. This study aims to determine the antimicrobial activity of Apis mellifera and Vespula vulgaris venom against Staphylococcus aureus, Klebsiella pneumoniae, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. The objectives were to determine the physicochemical properties, antibacterial activity, synergistic effects, Minimum Inhibitory Concentration (MIC), Minimum Bactericidal Concentration (MBC), time-kill assay, and safety of the venoms. Methodology: Venom was collected from Apis mellifera (African Killer Bees) and Vespula vulgaris (yellowjacket wasps) using electric impulses. The venom was purified through a multi-step procedure including dissolving, centrifugation, filtration, column chromatography, and high-performance liquid chromatography. Results: The study revealed that both venoms exhibited distinct physio-chemical characteristics, with Apis mellifera venom being colorless, transparent, and odorless with a pH of 4.5, while Vespula vulgaris venom was light yellowish/beige with a pH of 5 and a light odor. Both venoms showed varying levels of antibacterial potency against S. aureus, K. pneumoniae, and P. aeruginosa, with Apis mellifera venom showing higher activity. The MIC and MBC values for Apis mellifera venom were 12.5-25 µg/mL and 50-100 µg/ mL, respectively, while Vespula vulgaris venom had MIC values of 12.5-50 µg/mL and MBC values of 50-100 µg/mL. The combination of venoms showed significant increased activity against the bacteria isolates, with a p-value of 0.000282. Time-kill assays demonstrated potent bactericidal activity, with Apis mellifera venom inhibiting the growth of S. aureus by 99.99%, K. pneumoniae by 99.8%, and P. aeruginosa by 94.06%, while Vespula vulgaris venom inhibited the growth of S. aureus by 99.99%, K. pneumoniae by 92.73%, and P. aeruginosa by 90.55%. HPLC analysis revealed distinct active component profiles for each venom, with Apis mellifera venom containing Apamine, Phospholipase A, and Melittin, and Vespula vulgaris venom containing Antigen 5, Phospholipase A (PLA), and Mastoparan. Biochemical parameters showed significant changes in liver and kidney function tests and inflammation markers, and the estimated LD50 for the synergy group was approximately 0.063 mg/kg, with dose-dependent toxicity and histopathological effects observed in the kidney and liver. Conclusion: The study provides valuable insights into the physio-chemical properties, antibacterial activity, and acute toxicity of Apis mellifera and Vespula vulgaris venom, highlighting their potential as natural antimicrobial agents.
Keywords : Bee Venom, Wasp Venom, Antibacterial Activity, MIC, Antimicrobial Agents
Conference Name : International Conference on Veterinary Medicine and Clinical Practice (ICVM-CP-26)
Conference Place : Toronto, Canada
Conference Date : 11th Jul 2026
