Characterization and Investigation of the Antibacterial Activity of Some Plant Essential Oils on Escherichia coli (Beta-lactamase Producer) Isolated from the Upper Basin of Litany River in Beqaa Valley of Lebanon
Year: 2025
Type: article
Abstract: The aim of this investigation was to monitor the occurrence of extended-spectrum beta-lactamase (ESBL) E. coli strains along the Upper Litany River Basin (ULRB), genotype ESBL producers, and determine their sensitivity to different essential oils (EOs). Thirty five E. coli strains were isolated and recognized using double-disc synergy test, then studied for the detection of key ESBL genes and Shiga-toxin genes using multiplex polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC), minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) broth microdilution, beside the time-kill assay were applied to determine the antibacterial activity of the EOs against the ESBL E. coli. EOs activity on biofilms was detected by antibiofilm screening. 22.8% strains were verified as ESBL producers and blaCTX-M was identified in all strains, then blaTEM with 50% of prevalence, and there was no detection of blaOXA, blaSHV, and both stx1 and stx2 genes. Sesame oil revealed the highest antibacterial activity. Followed by Coconut, Lettuce, and Almond oils with a concentration ranging between 6.25% and 50%. Almond, Sesame, and Lettuce oils showed an interesting effect against biofilm formation, and Coconut and Sesame oils were effective against preformed biofilms. Our study showed the antibacterial and antibiofilm effects of EOs against ESBL E. coli.
Authors: Deema Bohlok, Malak Mezher, Monzer Hamze, Bilal Houshaymi, Mahmoud I. Khalil
Language: English
Subfield: Food Science
Domain: Life Sciences
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $500
OpenAlex ID: W7108445490