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Abstract

Objective: β-lactamase enzyme is encoded by the plasmid mediated genes which is very effective against β-lactam antibiotics. This enzyme is produced by many gram negative bacteria which consequences hinder in in therapy with many efficient β-lactam antibiotics. The aim of this study is to assess the susceptibility of the strain, isolated from marine water against Ampicillin (antibiotics) and the production of β-lactamase. Material and Methods: Marine water samples were collected from Clifton Beach during summer in sterile condition; organisms were identified and characterized through biochemical analysis. MIC for ampicillin was determined by broth dilution method. Plasmid extraction was performed by following the modified method of Birnboim Doly. β-lactamase was also detected by iodometric cell suspension method. Results: Ampicillin resistance was observed in selected strain. Isolated gram negative bacilli strain was highly resistant to ampicillin (≥ 2500µg/ml). Through the analysis of colonial morphology, microscopic examination and plasmid extraction (which was found as 10 kb in size) strain was suspected as Vibrio spp. The results of iodometric assay for β-lactamase was also considerable. Conclusion: The dreadful spread of antibiotic resistant mechanism in aquatic environment and the excessive use of antibiotic were highlighted. Marine isolates were characterized and identified as luminescent bacteria. A simple and convenient method of β-lactamase analysis through iodometric assay has been applied which was found to be a reliable technique as compare to other β-lactamase quantification method.