Russian scientists at the Don State Technical University have found the main causes of antibiotic resistance to microbes.
According to the study published in the scientific journal “Fronties in Microbiology”, the bioactive compounds of green cardamom prevent the formation of biofilms, and thanks to that, they are useful in creating new antimicrobial drugs.
The results of the study showed that the bacterial biofilm is a multi-layered structure, which is formed by a group of microbes to protect them from the aggressive environment, as well as from the influence of drugs. A layer of polymers embedded in the cell matrix acts as a “shield” for the bacteria. It provides resistance of the microorganism to both antibiotics and the functioning of the human immune system.
Scientists pointed out that bacteria are becoming more resistant to commonly used antibiotics, and the search for new drugs that can fight resistant strains of microbes without risking the body as a whole is a major field of pharmacology.
The study also revealed that the essential oils of green cardamom are an excellent way to fight biofilms. Scientists have identified the high potential of bioactive compounds based on this plant in fighting a number of bacterial pathogens, including Escherichia coli, streptococcus, salmonella and others.
Head of the Center for Agricultural Biotechnology at Russian Don Technical University, Mikhail Chikendas, said: “According to the US National Institutes of Health, at least 80% of infectious diseases are caused by bacteria that are capable of forming biofilms. Green cardamom oil will help fight drug-resistant microorganisms. Multiplication: with a concentration of 0.125%, which is lower than the lethal concentration of bacteria, it will prevent the formation of biofilms for pathogens. ”
The expert added: “Compounds derived from the green cardamom plant may provide an alternative to chemical preservatives and help in developing drugs with a long shelf life.”