Researchers Identify Korean Skincare Ingredient Madecassic Acid as Potent Weapon Against Antibiotic Resistance

University of Kent scientists discover how Madecassic acid kills E. coli, offering a new hope in the global fight against drug-resistant bacteria.

By: AXL Media

Published: Apr 9, 2026, 9:27 AM EDT

Source: Information for this report was sourced from EurekAlert!

A Natural Remedy for a Modern Medical Crisis

Researchers from the University of Kent and University College London have identified a transformative use for Madecassic acid, a natural chemical found in the herb Centella asiatica. Traditionally prized in the skincare industry for its soothing properties, this compound has demonstrated significant antibacterial activity in a laboratory setting. This discovery is particularly timely, as the global healthcare community faces a mounting threat from antimicrobial resistance, which is projected to claim 39 million lives by 2050.

The Strategic Blockade of Bacterial Respiration

According to the study published in RSC Medicinal Chemistry, the efficacy of Madecassic acid lies in its ability to bind to the cytochrome bd complex. This specific protein complex is essential for the survival and growth of various pathogenic bacteria, including E. coli, during the infection process. Because this respiratory protein does not exist in humans or animals, it represents a highly specific target, allowing the compound to disrupt bacterial functions without interfering with the biological processes of the host.

Isolating and Refining Nature’s Chemical Blueprint

The research team, led by Dr. Mark Shepherd, successfully isolated Madecassic acid from plant extracts sourced in Vietnam. To test the versatility of the molecule, scientists created three distinct chemical variants, each designed to optimize the compound's inhibitory effects. All three versions were found to successfully shut down the growth of E. coli, while one specific variant demonstrated the ability to actively kill the bacteria when applied at higher concentrations.