Chitosan-propolis nanoparticle formulation demonstrates anti-bacterial activity against Enterococcus faecalis...

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Microbiology
• Nanotechnology

Background:

• Propolis, a natural bee product, exhibits antimicrobial properties but suffers from poor aqueous solubility.
• Ethanol and ethyl acetate extracts of Malaysian propolis showed antimicrobial and anti-biofilm activity against Enterococcus faecalis.
• Enterococcus faecalis is a common pathogen associated with hospital-acquired infections and forms resistant biofilms.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the antimicrobial and anti-biofilm efficacy of a chitosan-propolis nanoformulation against Enterococcus faecalis.
• To evaluate the potential of this nanoformulation for treating biofilm-associated infections.

Main Methods:

• Preparation and characterization of a chitosan-propolis nanoformulation based on physicochemical properties.
• Assessment of the nanoformulation's ability to inhibit E. faecalis biofilm formation and disrupt pre-formed biofilms.
• Analysis of biofilm structure disruption using scanning electron microscopy and evaluation of effects on biofilm-associated gene expression.

Main Results:

• The chitosan-propolis nanoformulation demonstrated significant inhibition of E. faecalis biofilm formation (~90% reduction at 200 μg/ml).
• The formulation reduced bacterial numbers in pre-formed biofilms by ~40% and ~75% at 200 and 300 μg/ml, respectively.
• Scanning electron microscopy confirmed physical disruption of biofilm structure, and gene expression analysis indicated altered biofilm-associated pathways.

Conclusions:

• Chitosan-propolis nanoformulation is a promising agent against E. faecalis biofilms.
• This nanoformulation holds potential for combating biofilm-related infections, such as chronic wounds and surgical site infections.