Budgett’s Frog

Facts for Prelims

Budgett’s Frog

News: Researchers at the Indian Institute of Science have identified a potent molecule, derived from amphibians, with the ability to combat pathogens.

What does the study reveal?
• They studied LL-TIL, a peptide found in skin secretions of the Budgett’s Frog.
• The researchers found that the frog-secreted peptide inhibited two key enzymes called subtilisin Carlsberg and proteinase K, produced by pathogens. These enzymes play a pivotal role in promoting infections by degrading specific protective proteins of the infected person. T
• he peptide was shown to act through a ‘slow-tight binding’ pathway, and was found to be as effective as SSI, a well-known subtilisin inhibitor. The study provides a framework to engineer more specific and potent TIL-type inhibitors, which can be used against other pathogenic enzymes as well.

About Budgett’s Frog:
• The Budgett’s frog, scientifically known as Lepidobatrachus laevis, is a species of frog in the family Ceratophryidae.
• It was discovered by John Samuel Budgett and is often kept as a pet. This frog has several popular nicknames,
including the hippo frog, Freddy Krueger frog, and escuerzo de agua. It is native to various countries in the South American region.