Biofilm Formation and Antibiotic Resistance in MDR Uropathogens: Evaluating Meropenem’s Inhibitory Potential
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Abstract
Multidrug-resistant (MDR) urinary tract infections (UTIs), predominantly caused by Escherichia coli (E. coli) and Klebsiella pneumoniae (K. pneumoniae), pose a serious public health challenge due to their ability to form biofilms that protect them from antimicrobial agents. This study aimed to assess the prevalence of biofilm-forming MDR uropathogens and evaluate the inhibitory effects of meropenem on biofilm production. A total of 63 MDR urinary isolates were collected and identified using the VITEK system. Biofilm-forming ability was assessed using the Tissue Culture Plate method, with classification based on optical density readings. Antibiotic susceptibility testing was conducted using standard protocols. The effect of meropenem on biofilm inhibition was tested at concentrations ranging from 0.25 µg/mL to 1.0 µg/mL. E. coli (76%) was the most prevalent isolate, followed by K. pneumoniae (24%). Strong biofilm formation was observed in 46% of the isolates, with K. pneumoniae showing slightly higher biofilm-forming ability than E. coli. Strong biofilm producers demonstrated significantly greater resistance to ampicillin, ciprofloxacin, and gentamicin (p < 0.05). Meropenem showed a dose-dependent inhibitory effect on biofilm formation, with concentrations ≥ 0.75 µg/mL significantly reducing biofilm biomass, especially at 1.0 µg/mL. The study confirms a strong correlation between biofilm formation and antibiotic resistance in MDR uropathogens. Meropenem effectively inhibited biofilm formation at higher concentrations, suggesting its potential utility in managing biofilm-associated UTIs. These findings highlight the need for novel therapeutic approaches that combine antimicrobial and anti-biofilm strategies to combat persistent MDR infections.