Silver nanoparticles from Solanum tuberosum peel extract combat drug-resistant E. coli – A multidisciplinary approach

The emergence of multidrug-resistant Escherichia coli poses a significant threat to global health, necessitating the development of novel antimicrobial strategies. This study explores the therapeutic potential of potato peel extracts against TEM-1 β-lactamase producing E. coli strains isolated from colonic patients. Resistant isolates, characterized by phenotypic and molecular methods, harbored the blaTEM-1 gene as the primary resistance determinant. Ethanolic extraction and GC-MS analysis identified 20 bioactive compounds, three of which (CID 5337676, CID 9601726 and CID 609855) demonstrated strong binding affinity to TEM-1 β-lactamase in molecular docking studies, suggesting inhibitory potential. Silver nanoparticles (Ag-NPs) biosynthesized using potato phytochemicals were characterized by UV-Vis spectroscopy, FESEM, and EDX, revealing spherical morphology (32–51 nm) and high elemental silver content (58.6%). In vitro disc diffusion assays showed significantly enhanced antibacterial activity of Ag-NPs compared to ethanolic extract alone. In vivo studies in E. coli -infected Swiss albino mice revealed improved intestinal recovery, evidenced by histopathological restoration of goblet cells and reduced inflammation in treated groups. These findings highlight potato-derived compounds and their Ag-NPs conjugates as promising candidates for combating antibiotic-resistant infections, offering a sustainable approach that bridges phytotherapy and nanotechnology. • Potato peel extract fights drug-resistant E. coli , targeting β-lactamase enzyme. • 21 bioactive compounds identified , including potent β-lactamase inhibitors. • Works even better with silver nanoparticles. • Computer models show how it blocks resistance enzymes. • Safe and well-absorbed based on drug metabolism tests. • Heals infections in mice , reducing tissue damage. • Eco-friendly solution using food waste against superbugs.