Endolysin-based biocontrol strategies against Listeria monocytogenes in food: A comprehensive review

Listeria monocytogenes poses significant challenges in the food industry due to its resistance in harsh environments and its ability to form biofilms. Endolysins represent a promising solution for controlling L. monocytogenes in the food industry, with potential applications during both production and storage. This review discusses various endolysins that effectively inhibit L. monocytogenes, emphasizing their optimal conditions and potential uses in food products. When used in combination with current methods such as nisin or high hydrostatic pressure, endolysins enhance food safety by providing synergistic antimicrobial effects. Additionally, cell binding domain enabled specific and rapid L. monocytogenes detection, expanding diagnostic applications through fluorescence tagging and biosensor integration. Advances in engineering endolysins have further improved their lytic efficiency and specificity, making them adaptable to diverse food safety challenges.