Antimicrobial activity of natural products

The broad aims of this research are to explore the antibacterial and antifungal activity of natural products, expand the knowledge base of the antimicrobial activity of natural compounds, and to support the use of natural products through scientific data. 

In particular, a research program is currently under way to explore the range of antibacterial activity found in Western Australian honeys. Some honeys, such as Jarrah and Marri (or Red Gum), are regarded as having high antibacterial activity; however, there are very few scientific papers to support this.

We aim to generate data to address this issue, and to explore a broader range of monofloral honeys to determine if further honeys with high antibacterial activity are produced in WA. 

The project team leader for this research is Dr Kate Hammer from UWA's School of Biomedical Sciences, in collaboration with Associate Professor Connie Locher from UWA's Division of Pharmacy.

The current research into WA honeys is a collaborative effort between researchers in different disciplines at UWA and non-UWA organisations, including ChemCentre WA.

Significant funding has been received in support of this research from AgriFutures Australia, CRC for Honey Bee Products and ChemCentre WA.