Molecular, Antibiogram Characterization and Assessment Biocidal Potency of Some Essential Oils in Combating the Virulent Pathogenic Escherichia coli from Different sources

Research Abstract

Abstract Escherichia coli (E. coli) is a food-borne bacterium that is responsible for several clinical infections in animals and humans. This study aimed to isolate E. coli from the feces and milk of animals in a dairy farm along with urine samples gathered from workers managing these animals. Serological and molecular characterization and antimicrobial efficacy evaluation of routinely used antibiotics were assessed. Finally, overcoming the high resistance of E. coli using some essential oils, such as thyme, peppermint, capsaicin, orange, green tea, tea tree and onion oils were investigated. Samples (n=610) were collected from feces, milk and urine. E. coli was significantly found in 44.87, 22.2, and 28.4%, respectively at X2=348.467, P<0.001. Serologically, O86 was the prominent serotype and O55 was found in milk and feces. Additionally, O44, O128 and O111 serotypes are denoted in milk. While O91 and O78 were only noticed in urine. Genetically, quorum-related gene (LuxS) was amplified in all isolates. Pathotype (ChuA, YjaA, TspE4C2) and virulent (Iss, IutA, Tsh) gene markers were observed in nearly all traits Further, a considerable multidrug resistance at P<0.001 was found in human and animal strains. The tea tree oil significantly showed antimicrobial efficiency whereas, thyme oil was ineffective in inhibiting development of E. coli. It was concluded that the existence of virulent and quorum determinants in E. coli in animals and humans is a noteworthy prospect for the public health concerning of cow’s milk and feces. Furthermore, the inhibitory and biocidal elements of essential oils are a realistic technique for eliminating resistant E. coli.

Research Keywords

E. coli, Prevalence, Pathotypes, Virulence, Quorum, Resistance, Tea tree, Essential oils