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- Title
Honey Prevents Biofilm Formation In Microbial Pathogens.
- Authors
J., Irish; D., Carter; S., Blair
- Abstract
INTRODUCTION Microorganisms often exist in nature not as single cells, but in biofilms, comprising one or more bacterial or fungal species in complex association with one another, adhering to an inert or living surface, and enclosed in an extracellular matrix. This matrix acts as a protective layer over the cells, making them more resistant to antimicrobial attack. As such, infections involving biofilms are difficult to eradicate, and pose a particular problem in indwelling medical devices such as catheters. The antimicrobial activity of honey against planktonic cells is well established. This activity is due to the production of hydrogen peroxide in most honeys, as well as phytochemical factors in rare Leptospermum honeys from Australia and New Zealand. However, the effects of honey on microbial biofilms are yet to be elucidated. MATERIALS AND METHODS We investigated the effect of honey on biofilm formation in Staphylococcus aureus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Candida albicans. Four honeys were tested: Jarrah honey, with activity due to hydrogen peroxide; a blend of hydrogen peroxide-type and Leptospermum honeys (Medihoney); a pure Leptospermum honey (Comvita); and an artificial honey, used to simulate the high sugar content in natural honey. RESULTS In the case of S. aureus, all three floral honeys significantly reduced biofilm formation at a concentration of 1% (w/v), and completely prevented biofilm formation at 5% (w/v). Artificial honey at concentrations up to 5% (w/v) actually promoted biofilm formation, while reduced growth was seen at concentrations of 10% (w/v) and above, indicating that osmotic pressure alone is not sufficient to prevent biofilm formation. CONCLUSIONS This study argues for the clinical use of honey as prophylaxis against biofilm formation, particularly for indwelling medical devices.
- Subjects
HONEY; BIOFILMS; PATHOGENIC microorganisms; STAPHYLOCOCCUS aureus; PSEUDOMONAS aeruginosa; CANDIDA albicans
- Publication
Malaysian Journal of Medical Sciences, 2007, Vol 14, Issue 1, p112
- ISSN
1394-195X
- Publication type
Article