Inhibiting Microbial Toxins Using Plant-Derived Compounds and Plant Extracts

Abstract

Many pathogenic bacteria and fungi produce potentially lethal toxins that cause cytotoxicity or impaired cellular function either at the site of colonization or other locations in the body through receptor-mediated interactions. Various factors, including biotic and abiotic environments, competing microbes, and chemical cues affect toxin expression in these pathogens. Recent work suggests that several natural compounds can modulate toxin production in pathogenic microbes. However, studies explaining the mechanistic basis for their effect are scanty. This review discusses the potential of various plant-derived compounds for reducing toxin production in foodborne and other microbes. In addition, studies highlighting their anti-toxigenic mechanism(s) are discussed.

The Potential of Plant-Based Bioactive Compounds on Inhibition of Aflatoxin B1 Biosynthesis and Down-regulation of aflR, aflM and aflP Genes

“…Although the exact mechanisms of antimicrobial and anti-toxigenic effects of plant-based bioactive compounds are not clearly defined; multiple, dose-dependent mechanisms have been reported. At high antimicrobial concentrations, plant bioactive compounds cause membrane damage, loss of energy production, enzyme dysfunction, and leakage of cell contents, leading to impaired cell physiology and cell death [ 14 , 41 ]. In addition, research has revealed that plant bioactive compounds at low and non-inhibitory concentrations affect pathogens by modulating gene transcription and protein expression [ 42 , 43 , 44 , 45 , 46 , 47 , 48 ].…”

Berberine Hydrochloride Could Prove to Be a Promising Bullet Against Clostridium Difficile Infection: A Preliminary Study From South India

“…The combination therapy of antibiotics with phytochemicals derived from plants maybe promising in the management of the multidrug-resistant enteric pathogens as evidenced from published literature [28]. Extensive studies are, therefore, warranted for proper characterization of the natural compounds to explore their therapeutic/chemical effects in the host, which in turn will enhance patient care through the production of safe and effective drugs [29]. This will help reduce the morbidity associated with CDI apart from minimizing the duration of hospital stay which poses an economic burden on the patients.…”

Phytochemical Screening and Bactericidal Potency of Justicia Adhatoda Against Clinical Pathogens

“…However, multiple dose-dependent pathways have been postulated. These include damage of membrane at bactericidal concentrations of plant compounds as well as loss of energy production which finally lead to cell death [27].…”