{Reference Type}: Journal Article {Title}: Potential antivirulence activity of sub-inhibitory concentrations of ciprofloxacin against Proteus mirabilis isolates: an in-vitro and in-vivo study. {Author}: Elhosseini MA;El-Banna TE;Sonbol FI;El-Bouseary MM; {Journal}: Ann Clin Microbiol Antimicrob {Volume}: 23 {Issue}: 1 {Year}: 2024 May 27 {Factor}: 6.781 {DOI}: 10.1186/s12941-024-00704-4 {Abstract}: BACKGROUND: Proteus mirabilis is a significant nosocomial pathogen that is frequently associated with a wide range of infections, necessitating heightened attention to mitigate potential health risks. Hence, this study was performed to investigate the impact of sub-minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs) of ciprofloxacin (CIP) on Proteus mirabilis clinical isolates.
METHODS: The sub-MICs of CIP were selected using the growth curve approach. The untreated and treated isolates with sub-MICs of CIP were assessed for their biofilm development, motilities on agar, and other virulence factors. The cell morphology of untreated and treated isolates with sub-MIC of CIP was explored using electron microscope. Moreover, the expression levels of the virulence genes in isolates were measured using quantitative real-time PCR.
RESULTS: Data revealed that sub-MICs of CIP significantly (p < 0.05), in a concentration-dependent manner, inhibited biofilm formation and other virulence factors in the selected isolates. Electron microscope analysis showed cell enlargement and various abnormalities in the cell wall and membrane integrity.
CONCLUSIONS: Sub-MICs of CIP exhibited inhibition of virulence and alterations in morphological integrity against P. mirabilis isolates.