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[combatingbacterialbiofilms]

Abstract

Eighty percent of life-threatening chronic infections are caused by bacteria growing as biofilms. Biofilms are highly resistant to antibacterial treatments, as they prevent penetration of conventional antibiotics. As a result, antibiotics have been used at much higher concentrations and longer duration, leading to antibiotic resistance. Many strategies have been employed to eradicate biofilms, but drawbacks to these methods have subsequently increased the need for alternative approaches to effectively prevent biofilm formation and eradication in-vivo. The focus of this project is to overcome the limitations of current anti-biofilm strategies using antioxidants as adjuvants to eradicate biofilms. Pseudomonas biofilms were developed and incubated with deionized water (control) and antioxidants in various concentrations. Biofilms were then quantified using crystal violet staining and optical densities (OD) were measured using Spectrophotometer. Maximum eradication of biofilm was noted with 50% N-Acetylcysteine (NAC), where the OD was 0.255, followed by 25% NAC (0.295). Zingiber Officinale (0.307), Curcuma longa (0.309), Ocimum tenuiflorum (0.393) and Eucalyptus globulus (0.413) were most effective at 50%. Maximum inhibition of biofilm formation was noted with 50% NAC, C. longa and Z. officinale, where OD was 0.082. Statistical Significance was confirmed using the T-Test. In conclusion, the usage of antioxidants in eradicating bacterial biofilms could be a revolutionary step towards addressing this pervasive global health issue. Novel methodologies can be developed to deliver antioxidants in-vivo through inhalation, intravenous, or oral medications in conjunction with antibiotics. Antioxidants can diminish biofilm-related morbidity and mortality and save thousands of lives across the globe.