Antibiotic resistance pattern and biofilm forming ability of ESBL-carrying Escherichia coli and its susceptibility to Hemidesmus indicus (L.) R.Br. root extract in conjunction with amoxicillin

Exploring antimicrobial potential of Hemidesmus indicus against E. coli

Abstract

Present investigation was conducted to evaluate biofilm forming ability of ESBL-carrying E. coli recovered from wild carnivores and its susceptibility to Hemidesmus indicus root extract. E. coli isolates were characterized for ESBL genes by PCR, antibiogram by disc diffusion test and biofilm formation by microtitre plate assay. In next part of study, methanolic Hemidesmus indicus root extract (MEH) was evaluated alone and in combination with amoxicillin for antibacterial and antibiofilm activity against ESBL and biofilm producing E. coli. A total of sixteen (53.33%) ESBL producing isolates were obtained. Among which 6.25% isolates were strong biofilm formers whereas 68.75% and 25% were moderate and weak biofilm producers, respectively. Amoxicillin in combination with MEH significantly inhibited growth and biofilm forming ability of ESBL-carrying E. coli. Amoxicillin and MEH showed additive antibacterial interaction and MEH synergized amoxicillin's antibiofilm activity against 50% isolates. Based on present findings it is recommended to use a combination of MEH and amoxicillin for therapeutic management of multidrug resistant ESBL-carrying E. coli.