The original concept of bacteriocin
was colicin based and were derived by Tagg et
al (1976) as substance possessing
1. Bactericidal mode of action
2. A narrow inhibitory spectrum of activity
centered about the closely related sources.
3. The presence of an essential biologically
active protein moiety.
4. Attachment to specific cell receptors
5. Plasmid borne genetic determinants of
bacteriocin production and of host cell
bacteriocin immunity.
6. Production by lethal biosynthesis i.e.
commitment of the bacterium to produce
bacteriocin will consequently bring about
cell lysis.