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REVIEW PAPER
Surfactin: a multifunctional lipopeptide with antimicrobial,
immunomodulatory, and nutritional applications
in animal production
1
Beijing Enhalor International Tech Co., Ltd., Beijing 101109, China
2
Beijing Veterinary Drug and Feed Surveillance Center, Beijing 102299, China
Publication date: 2026-04-13
KEYWORDS
TOPICS
ABSTRACT
Surfactin is a potent cyclic lipopeptide produced by Bacillus species
that demonstrates broad-spectrum antimicrobial, antiviral, anti-inflammatory,
antiparasitic, and immunomodulatory activities. Its amphiphilic structure
enables membrane disruption, nutrient emulsification, and immune stimulation,
making it a promising alternative to antibiotics in animal agriculture. Surfactinrich
fermented products have been shown to improve growth performance,
gut health, nutrient absorption, and disease resistance in poultry, pigs, and
aquaculture species. Additionally, surfactin functions as an effective vaccine
adjuvant and shows synergistic effects with antibiotics and plant extracts,
improving therapeutic outcomes. Collectively, these multifunctional properties
position surfactin as a sustainable feed additive and biomedical agent with broad
application potential in livestock production and related biomedical fields.
CONFLICT OF INTEREST
The Authors declare that there is no conflict of interest.
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