The induced and intrinsic resistance of Escherichia coli to sanguinarine is mediated by AcrB efflux pump.

ABSTRACT

IMPORTANCE The use of plant extracts is increasing as an alternative to synthetic compounds, especially antibiotics. However, there is no sufficient knowledge on the mechanisms and potential risks of antibiotic resistance induced by these phytochemicals. In the present study, we found that stable drug resistant mutants of E. coli emerged after repetitive exposure to sanguinarine and demonstrated that the AcrB efflux pump contributed to the emerging of induced and intrinsic resistance of E. coli to this phytochemical. Our results offered some insights into comprehending and preventing the onset of drug-resistant strains when utilizing products containing sanguinarine.