Scientists in the UAE have identified two mulberry species native to the UAE that may exhibit promising antimicrobial properties, potentially contributing to the global search for new antibiotics and antifungal treatments.
Researchers from Fujairah Research Centre and Umm Al Quwain University examined extracts from Morus nigra (black mulberry) and Morus alba (white mulberry) to test their ability to inhibit bacterial and fungal growth in laboratory conditions. Their findings were published in Nature Communications, where the team reported notably strong antimicrobial activity compared with several previously studied plant extracts.
Plants as a Source of Future Medicines
For centuries, plants have played a foundational role in medicine. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is now one of the top global public health threats, contributing to an estimated 1.3 million deaths annually due to drug-resistant infections.
The UAE study suggests that compounds present in local mulberry species may offer alternative or complementary approaches to combating resistant bacteria and fungi.
Scientists noted that plants naturally produce antimicrobial chemicals as a defence mechanism against pathogens. Over millions of years of evolution, this “chemical arms race” has resulted in complex bioactive compounds that modern biotechnology is increasingly able to identify and analyse.
Advancements in genomic sequencing and molecular biology are accelerating the discovery of such plant-derived compounds, potentially allowing researchers to isolate useful genes and reproduce active substances through controlled laboratory processes.
Tackling Antibiotic Resistance
Experts not involved in the UAE research have long emphasised the importance of diversifying the search for antimicrobial compounds. While many existing antibiotics originate from fungi rather than plants, botanical sources remain underexplored.
The WHO has warned that overuse and misuse of antibiotics in humans and animals significantly contribute to resistance. Efforts to identify plant-based alternatives or complementary therapies could support broader strategies aimed at reducing reliance on traditional antibiotics.
In addition to antimicrobial potential, the researchers indicated that both mulberry species may contain beneficial mineral and nutrient profiles, suggesting possible applications in the food supplement and healthcare industries.
Beyond Antibiotics
Historically, plants have provided the foundation for numerous pharmaceutical breakthroughs. Artemisinin — derived from Artemisia annua — remains a key treatment for malaria and is documented by the World Health Organization as a frontline therapy against the disease.
Similarly, alkaloids extracted from the opium poppy have formed the basis of widely used pain management drugs.
The UAE-based researchers emphasised that further biochemical analysis is required to isolate and validate specific active compounds within the Morus species. However, the findings underscore the growing relevance of plant genomics and phytochemistry in addressing future health challenges.
As antimicrobial resistance continues to rise globally, natural compounds derived from regional biodiversity may play an increasingly important role in drug discovery pipelines.
Sources
• Nature Communications
• World Health Organization – Antimicrobial Resistance
Aisha Al Mansoori is a UAE-based business and technology analyst covering startups, venture capital, AI, fintech, and innovation trends shaping the Emirates’ economy.
