Evaluation of resistance modulation in MDR Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Klebsiella pneumoniae using peppermint oil nanoemulsion: integrating antibacterial assays and molecular modeling

The findings indicate that PEONE is effective at inhibiting and killing MDR <i>K. pneumoniae</i> and <i>P. aeruginosa</i>. The observed leakage of DNA and proteins suggests that the mechanism of action likely involves disruption of the bacterial membrane, leading to the loss of intracellular contents. This is further supported by the computational data, which identified caryophyllene as a key component with stable binding to resistance-associated β-lactamase enzymes. These results position PEONE as a promising, plant-based alternative for combating antibiotic-resistant urinary tract infections. Further <i>in vivo</i> studies are warranted to explore its clinical applicability and safety profile.