Garlic prevents the development of bacteria resistance
Last reviewed: 23.04.2024
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Some types of microorganisms are able to form a special biofilm, which enhances their ability to withstand the action of antibiotics.
A team of scientists from the University of Copenhagen (Denmark) has found an effective way to eliminate it using a garlic extract.
Tim Holm Jacobsen and Michael Givskov have already discovered that one of the components of garlic suppresses the expression of genes that control the interaction of bacteria in the community. As a result of its action, the bonds between bacteria are violated, the biofilm disintegrates, and microorganisms quickly die. In studies on laboratory animals, garlic extract allowed to quickly cope with infection in the lungs caused by Pseudomonas aeruginosa (Pseudomonas aeruginosa).
Recently, scientists have been able to identify the active substance of garlic ajoene (ajoene). Adjoen is a part of many sulfur-containing compounds, which are obtained by grinding garlic. It turned out that Ajoin can tame the action of 11 genes controlling intercellular interaction, which is of key importance for the development of infection. Adjoen also reduces the synthesis of bacteria of the ramolipid, which protects bacterial films from leukocyte attacks.
Scientists used ajoen in the treatment of patients with cystic fibrosis. For such patients Pseudomonas aeruginosa is a very serious problem. The life expectancy of patients with cystic fibrosis usually does not exceed 40 years, and most often the cause of death is infection with Pseudomonas aeruginosa.
As a result of the research, it turned out that ajoen in combination with an antibiotic can destroy more than 90% of bacteria in biofilms.
This study is part of a large project to study natural compounds that can resist the communication of pathogens to avoid the effect of resistance.
This is another confirmation of the potent antibacterial effect of garlic. In addition, garlic is well known as an antiviral, antifungal and antiprotozoal. Garlic is also suitable for correcting cholesterol levels and supporting immunity.