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In Vitro Antibacterial and Anti-biofilm Potential of an Endophytic Schizophyllum commune

Summary

This research investigated the potential of a fungus called Schizophyllum commune, found living inside Aloe vera plants, as a source of new antibacterial compounds. The study found that extracts from this fungus could effectively kill harmful bacteria and prevent them from forming protective biofilms. This discovery is significant for everyday life in several ways: • Could lead to development of new antibiotics to fight resistant bacterial infections • May help create new treatments for biofilm-related infections in medical devices • Demonstrates the potential of natural sources in discovering new medicines • Could reduce dependence on conventional antibiotics • Shows promise for treating chronic bacterial infections that are difficult to cure with current medications

Background

The emergence of antibiotic resistance in pathogens is a major health concern as bacterial strains have developed resistance over time due to overuse and misuse of antibiotics. Biofilm formation further contributes to antibiotic resistance, necessitating exploration of novel compounds that can inhibit biofilm formation. Endophytic fungi show antibacterial and anti-biofilm potential and could serve as a source of novel antibacterial compounds.

Objective

To assess the antibacterial, anti-biofilm and biofilm dispersion potential of an endophytic basidiomycetous fungus Schizophyllum commune isolated from Aloe vera.

Results

The S. commune extract showed good antibacterial activity against multiple pathogens including S. aureus, K. pneumoniae, E. coli, P. aeruginosa, S. enterica and V. cholerae. MIC and MBC values ranged from 1.25-10 mg/ml. Time kill studies confirmed bactericidal activity with complete killing achieved between 1-6 hours for most pathogens. The extract showed significant biofilm inhibitory activity against S. enterica (69.30%) and K. pneumoniae (54.69%) at sub-MIC values.

Conclusion

This is the first study demonstrating the biofilm inhibitory potential of endophytic S. commune. The extract showed promising antibacterial and anti-biofilm activity against various pathogenic bacteria, indicating its potential for exploitation in antibacterial therapeutics as a source of effective bioactive compounds.
  • Published in:AMB Express,
  • Study Type:In Vitro Study,
  • Source: 10.1186/s13568-024-01663-x
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