Evaluation of capsaicin and ascorbic acid on matrix composition, biofilm formation and dispersion of Escherichia coli and Listeria monocytogenes

• Grant number: 17/05989-1
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Scientific Initiation
• Effective date (Start): September 01, 2017
• Effective date (End): August 31, 2018
• Field of knowledge: Agronomical Sciences - Food Science and Technology - Food Science
• Principal Investigator: Lizziane Kretli Winkelströter Eller
• Grantee: Hevelin Regiane Augusto da Silva
• Host Institution: Faculdade de Ciências da Saúde (FCSA). Universidade do Oeste Paulista (UNOESTE). Presidente Prudente , SP, Brazil

Abstract

Escherichia coli and Listeria monocytogenes are important pathogens that cause severe food-borne infections and it is capable to form biofilms. Biofilms are defined as a community of bacterial cells embedded in a matrix of exopolysaccharides produced by themselves adhered to an abiotic or biotic surface. Biofilm poses a major challenge for public health since its cells are more resistant to the immune system and antimicrobials. In this project, we highlight the benefits of nutraceuticals capsaicin and ascorbic acid as analgesic, pungency and antioxidant action. However, little is known about its action in the matrix composition and in biofilm formation and dispersion. The objective of this project is to evaluate the influence of capsaicin and ascorbic acid in the biofilm physiology of E. coli and L. monocytogenes. Methods will be done to quantify the components in the biofilms matrix such as carbohydrates, proteins and DNA. In addition, biofilm formation and dispersion will be evaluated by the violet crystal staining method. Spatial architecture of the biofilms will also be observed by confocal laser scanning microscopy. The results will be developed in triplicates and then submitted to statistical analysis using the ANOVA test considering a significant P <0.05. The results obtained in this project are promising since it can be helpful for the development of new strategies to control and to prevent E. coli and L. monocytogenes biofilms. (AU)

Scientific publications

(References retrieved automatically from Web of Science and SciELO through information on FAPESP grants and their corresponding numbers as mentioned in the publications by the authors)

AUGUSTO SILVA, HEVELIN REGIANE; DE SOUZA, GABRIELLE MESSIAS; FERNANDES, JOSE DIEGO; LEOPOLDO CONSTANTINO, CARLOS JOSE; WINKELSTROTER, LIZZIANE KRETLI. Unravelling the effects of the food components ascorbic acid and capsaicin as a novel anti-biofilm agent against Escherichia coli. JOURNAL OF FOOD SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY-MYSORE, OCT 2019. (17/05989-1, 13/14262-7)