Bioluminescent whole-cell reporter gene assays as screening tools in the identification of antimicrobial natural product extracts

We describe novel tools, bioluminescent whole-cell reporter gene assays, for facilitating the use of natural products in antimicrobial drug discovery. As proof-of-concept, a plant extract library was screened and follow-up experiments were carried out. Primary results can be obtained in 2–4h with high sensitivity, leading to significant improvements of the process.