Stress-induced biofilm formation in multidrug-resistant Escherichia coli isolated from animals
Abstract
Background. The microbiota of animals is constantly subjected to stressors, including antibiotics, environmental conditions, and nutrient limitation. Given the prevalence and pronounced adaptive potential of Escherichia coli, the ability of these bacteria to form biofilms is of particular importance. This biofilm formation significantly compromises the efficacy of therapy for infectious diseases by reducing the availability of antimicrobial agents and enhancing bacterial resistance to disinfection measures.
Purpose. To evaluate stress-induced biofilm formation in MDR Escherichia coli strains isolated from various ecological niches of livestock and wild birds under simulated nutrient stress.
Materials and methods. A total of 77 Escherichia coli strains were studied. Isolates originated from cattle (n=52), pigs (n=11), wild birds (n=11), and turkeys c(n=3). Strains were isolated and identified using standard microbiological methods. Biofilm-forming capacity was quantified using a modified microtiter plate method described by Stepanović et al.
Results. Significant variability in biofilm-forming capacity was observed among MDR E. coli animal isolates. Strains from cattle and pigs exhibited the highest potential: 34.6 % and 27.3 % were strong biofilm producers (OD>0.400), respectively, whereas no strong producers were identified among turkeys isolates. E. coli strains from cattle mucosal swabs formed biofilms more robustly than environmental isolates. High antimicrobial resistance rates were observed: >60 % to aminoglycosides, 70 % to tetracyclines, and 80% to fluoroquinolones. Key findings demonstrated stress-induced biofilm enhancement under moderate nutrient stress (nutrient broth dilution 1:2-1:64). Among 24 tested strains, mean OD increased by 15-20 % versus control, peaking at 0.372±0.033 (1:32 dilution). Conversely, severe nutrient depletion (≥1:128 dilution) markedly suppressed biofilm formation (OD <0.070). Select strains maintained high biofilm capacity under extreme conditions. Statistical analysis confirmed the significant impact of nutrient dilution on biofilm levels (p<0.001), visualized in a heatmap.
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