Madecassic acid is widely known as a calming “hero ingredient” in Korean skin care, but new research suggests it may play an even bigger role. Scientists at the University of Kent have discovered that this plant-based compound could help fight one of the most pressing global health threats: antibiotic-resistant bacteria.
The researchers, in collaboration with colleagues at University College London (UCL), studied madecassic acid using a combination of computer-based screening and laboratory experiments. This natural chemical is Gotukolaa commonly used Asian medicinal herb. Their results show that this compound has strong antibacterial properties and could serve as a starting point for new drug development.
These discoveries come at a critical time. Treating drug-resistant infections is becoming increasingly difficult, with experts estimating that 39 million people could die from antimicrobial resistance between 2025 and 2050. The development of new antibiotics is expensive and time-consuming, so identifying promising compounds from natural sources is an important step forward. This study highlights how modern technology can unlock the medical potential of plant-based chemicals.
How Madecassic Acid Targets Dangerous Bacteria
This study RSC Medicinal Chemistrydiscovers that madecassic acid can block antibiotic resistance Escherichia coli From growth. This compound works by binding to cytochromes. B.D. The complex is a protein system that depends on bacterial respiration and survival during infection. This system is absent in humans and animals, making it an attractive target for new therapeutics.
By interfering with this process, madecassic acid interferes with the bacteria’s ability to function normally. This suggests that it may be developed as an alternative antibacterial agent that acts differently from existing antibiotics.
Modified version shows even stronger effects
Another important advantage of madecassic acid is that its chemical structure can be modified. Researchers extracted this compound from Vietnamese plant samples and created three modified versions. Both of these mutants successfully blocked cytochromes. B.D. complex and stop bacterial growth. In some versions it was also possible to kill Escherichia coli At higher concentrations.
Scientists plan to continue purifying these compounds to improve their effectiveness and explore their potential as future medicines.
Skin care and potential effects on the skin microbiome
Beyond medical expectations, the findings may also shed light on how madecassic acid affects the skin’s natural bacteria when used in skin care products. This could help researchers better understand its broad biological effects.
Lead author Dr Mark Sheppard, Reader in Microbial Biochemistry at the University of Kent, said: “Plants have been a source of natural medicines for thousands of years, and modern research approaches now allow us to elucidate their mechanisms of action. These are exciting times, and we hope to further our understanding of natural antimicrobials from plants, nature’s great chemical factories.”
