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Updated: May 7, 2026

Investigating the Effects of Probiotics on Pneumococcal Colonization Using an In Vitro Adherence Assay
Published on: April 28, 2014
Coptis rhizome extract influence on Streptococcus pneumoniae through autolysin activation
Eon-Bee Lee1,2, Kyubae Lee3
1Laboratory of Veterinary Pharmacokinetics and Pharmacodynamics, College of Veterinary Medicine, Kyungpook National University, Daegu, 41566, Republic of Korea.
Coptis rhizome extract CRET70 shows potent antibacterial activity against Streptococcus pneumoniae, including resistant strains. This traditional remedy effectively inhibits bacterial growth and biofilm formation, offering a promising natural alternative in the fight against antibiotic resistance.
Area of Science:
- Pharmacology
- Microbiology
- Ethnobotany
Background:
- Streptococcus pneumoniae causes significant respiratory infections.
- Antibiotic resistance in S. pneumoniae necessitates novel therapeutic strategies.
- Coptis rhizome is traditionally used for respiratory ailments, but its efficacy against S. pneumoniae lacks empirical validation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the antibacterial properties of Coptis rhizome extracts against S. pneumoniae.
- To evaluate the potential of Coptis rhizome in combating antibiotic resistance.
- To explore the mechanism of action, including effects on bacterial autolysis and biofilm formation.
Main Methods:
- Preparation of four Coptis rhizome extracts (CRET30, CRET50, CRET70, CRDW) using ethanol and distilled water.
- Assessment of antibacterial activity via Minimum Inhibitory Concentration (MIC), disk diffusion, and time-kill assays against standard and resistant S. pneumoniae strains.
- Evaluation of biofilm inhibition and monitoring of the lytA gene expression related to autolysis.
Main Results:
- The CRET70 extract exhibited potent antibacterial activity with an MIC of 0.125 µg/mL against both S. pneumoniae strains.
- CRET70 demonstrated significant inhibition zones (22.17 mm and 17.20 mm) and a 2-log decrease in bacterial counts.
- The extract effectively inhibited 77.40% of biofilm formation and induced significant overexpression of the lytA gene.
Conclusions:
- Coptis rhizome extract CRET70 possesses remarkable antibacterial efficacy against S. pneumoniae.
- The findings suggest Coptis rhizome as a potential natural therapeutic agent against S. pneumoniae infections, particularly in the context of rising antibiotic resistance.
- The lytA gene overexpression indicates autolysis as a potential mechanism contributing to the antibacterial effects of Coptis rhizome.
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