Restoring E. coli Sensitivity to Ampicillin with Green Tea Compound
Author Information
Author(s): Kiddee Anong, Yosboonruang Atchariya, Siriphap Achiraya, Pook-In Grissana, Suwancharoen Chittakun, Duangjai Acharaporn, Praphasawat Ratsada, Suganuma Masami, Rawangkan Anchalee
Primary Institution: University of Phayao, Thailand
Hypothesis
Can (−)-epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) restore the effectiveness of ampicillin against multidrug-resistant E. coli?
Conclusion
The combination of EGCG and ampicillin significantly enhances the effectiveness of ampicillin against multidrug-resistant E. coli.
Supporting Evidence
- EGCG showed activity against all 40 MDR E. coli isolates.
- The combination treatment reduced the required EGCG dose by up to 125-fold.
- The bactericidal effect of the combination occurred within 2 hours.
- EGCG disrupted membrane permeability and enhanced ampicillin's action.
- The combination nearly eliminated biofilm biomass of MDR E. coli.
Takeaway
This study shows that a natural compound from green tea can help an old antibiotic work better against superbugs.
Methodology
The study used antimicrobial activity assays, checkerboard assays, time-kill assays, and scanning electron microscopy to evaluate the effects of EGCG and ampicillin on E. coli.
Limitations
The study focused on a specific strain of E. coli and may not generalize to all multidrug-resistant strains.
Participant Demographics
40 isolated multidrug-resistant E. coli strains from clinical settings.
Statistical Information
P-Value
0.009 to 0.018
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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