Susceptibility Pattern of ESBL Producing Uropathogenic Escherichia coli against the Methanolic Extract of Bitter Kola
Chioma Millicent Orji
Department of Medical Laboratory Science, Enugu State University of Science and Technology, Enugu State, Nigeria.
Somtochukwu Chukwunweike Ezenwalie
*
Faculty of Medical Laboratory Science, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Anambra State, Nigeria.
Margaret Onyinye Orakwe
Faculty of Medical Laboratory Science, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Anambra State, Nigeria.
Benedict Nwachinemerem Mbahaotu
Department of Medical Laboratory Science, Enugu State University of Science and Technology, Enugu State, Nigeria.
Nnamdi Dave Ogoegbunam
Faculty of Medical Laboratory Science, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Anambra State, Nigeria.
Chibueze Stanley Umeokana
Department of Medical Laboratory Science, University of Nigeria, Enugu State, Nigeria.
*Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.
Abstract
Aim: To evaluate the susceptibility pattern of Extended-Spectrum Beta-Lactamase (ESBL)-producing uropathogenic Escherichia coli (UPEC) against methanolic extracts of bitter kola (Garcinia kola).
Study Design: A cross-sectional laboratory-based study.
Place and Duration of Study: ESUT Teaching Hospital, Enugu, Nigeria, between August and October 2024.
Methodology: 100 urine samples were collected from suspected urinary tract infection (UTI) patients, which yielded 88 bacterial isolates. E. coli was identified via biochemical testing, and ESBL production was confirmed using the Double Disk Synergy Test (DDST). Phytochemical analysis of G. kola was performed to identify bioactive compounds. Antibacterial activity was assessed using the agar well diffusion method at concentrations ranging from neat to 1:50.
Results: Out of 34 (39%) identified E. coli strains, 10 (29%) were confirmed as ESBL producers. Phytochemical screening revealed the presence of saponins, tannins, flavonoids, and alkaloids. The neat extract demonstrated significant inhibitory activity, with zones of inhibition (ZOI) ranging from 10 mm to 20 mm. Antibacterial efficacy followed a clear dose-response relationship, with potency decreasing significantly at lower concentrations.
Conclusion: Methanolic extracts of G. kola exhibit potent in vitro antibacterial activity against multi-drug resistant ESBL-producing UPEC. These findings suggests that bitter kola holds potential as a natural therapeutic alternative or adjunct for managing resistant UTIs. Further research is required to establish in vivo efficacy and safety profiles.
Keywords: Garcinia kola, ESBL, Escherichia coli, uropathogens, phytochemicals