Exploring Beta-Lactamase Inhibitory Potential of Common Medicinal Plants

Abstract

The use of ?-Lactam antibiotics improperly has significant negative effects on public safety and health around the world. It causes the disturbance of gut flora, the emergence of multi-drug-resistant bacteria, and environmental contamination. The focus of this investigation was the Gram-negative pathogens Escherichia coli (E. coli), and Pseudomonas aeruginosa (P. aeruginosa). Potent beta-lactamase inhibitors were found among phytochemicals from medicinal plants by in-silico analysis, with Gallocatechin gallate from Green tea and Glycyrrhetinic acid from Licorice being particularly effective against TEM-1 and IMP-1 ?-Lactamases, respectively. In-vitro analysis such as D-zone assay and time-kill assay showed that the methanolic plant extracts improved the effectiveness of antibiotics against these Gram-negative pathogens. This research emphasizes the potential of medicinal plants in combating ?-Lactam antibiotic resistance, offering alternative solutions to address this global health challenge.