Withania somnifera (L.) Dunal: A medicinally important plant inhibits pathogenic biofilms

Overuse of synthetic antibiotics and the emergence of multidrug resistance (MDR) in ESKAPE bacteria are major clinical concerns on a global scale. ESKAPE bacteria are responsible for most hospital-acquired infections because of their capacity to create robust biofilms. One of the most important targets for medications is biofilm-regulated bacterial pathogenicity. In the Indian medical system, Withania somnifera (L.) Dunal (WS) is an important medicinal plant used to treat illnesses. However, no research has been conducted to assess its antibiofilm potential against MDR pathogens and anti-aging potential. The reported study assessed the potential of WS root aqueous extract against ESKAPE biofilms and linked traits including EPS and alginate production, CSH, swarming and swimming motilities, and production of matrix components (eDNA, eProtein, and eCarbohydrates) of such pathogens in vitro . Concurrently, the root extract was tested for its ability to inhibit enzymes such as tyrosinase, collagenase and elastase contributed to skin aging. The root extract's MIC value against all six ESKAPE pathogens was 2.0 mg/mL. Bacterial biofilms were quantified at a sub-MIC value of 1.0 mg/mL using a microtiter plate assay and matrix components were evaluated using Dispersin B (DspB) extractant. The sub-MIC concentration significantly reduced biofilm formation and associated characteristics; the utmost inhibition was 59.9 % in all six tested pathogens. A likewise pattern of inhibition in matrix components was recorded, and highest reduction was 53.4 % in the ESKAPE pathogens. Additionally, the root extract was tested for its anti-aging potential. The sub-MIC concentrations suppressed the three major aging enzymes up to 31.47 %. The present study reveals that WS root extract imparts a novel anti-biofilm effect against ESKAPE, as well as offering skin anti-aging potential, for the first time. Thus, WS root could be utilized as a potential herbal remedy against nosocomial infection and aging of skin. • Aqueous extract of Withania somnifera (WS) root reveals novel anti-biofilm potential against ESKAPE pathogens. • Aqueous extract of WS root inhibits biofilm matrix components (eDNA, eProtein and eCarbohydrates) substantially. • Aging enzymes (tyrosinase, collagenase and elastase) demonstrated significant inhibition WS root extract. • The present study facilitates the application of roots for the development of versatile plant-based pharmaceuticals.