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Characterization of virulence factors and antibacterial activity of curcumin in hypervirulent Klebsiella pneumoniae .

Morteza Karami-ZarandiHadi Esmaeili Gouvarchin GhalehReza Ranjbar
Published in: Future microbiology (2022)
Aim: Klebsiella pneumoniae is a threat to human health due to its carbapenem-resistance and hypervirulent phenotype. Curcumin is a well-known antimicrobial agent. Hence, it is important to investigate the antivirulence activity of curcumin against hypervirulent K. pneumoniae isolates. Materials & methods: Carbapenemase presence and prevalence of hypervirulent isolates were determined. Inhibition of biofilm formation and expression of virulence genes were analyzed by colorimetry and real-time PCR tests. Results: Sixteen hypervirulent K. pneumoniae isolates were identified. The optimum activity of curcumin was detected at 1/2 minimum inhibitory concentration. Curcumin possessed appropriate antibiofilm, anti-efflux and anticapsule activities. Conclusion: According to the crucial role of biofilm, capsule and efflux systems in the pathogenesis of hypervirulent K. pneumoniae , curcumin may be used to improve anti- Klebsiella treatment.
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