Improving Survival of Mice Infected with E. coli O157:H7 Using Rifampicin and Gentamicin
Author Information
Author(s): Rahal Elias A, Kazzi Natalie, Sabra Ahmad, Abdelnoor Alexander M, Matar Ghassan M
Primary Institution: American University of Beirut
Hypothesis
Decreasing Shiga toxin expression prior to bacterial eradication may provide a safer course of therapy for E. coli O157:H7 infections.
Conclusion
Using rifampicin followed by gentamicin effectively decreases toxin expression and improves survival in mice infected with E. coli O157:H7.
Supporting Evidence
- Rifampicin significantly decreased Shiga toxin gene expression in vitro.
- Mice treated with rifampicin followed by gentamicin had the highest survival rates.
- Gentamicin alone led to the death of all treated mice by day 4.
Takeaway
This study found that giving mice a medicine to lower harmful toxins before using a stronger medicine to kill the bacteria helped them survive better.
Methodology
The study evaluated the effect of rifampicin and gentamicin on Shiga toxin expression in vitro and monitored survival in infected mice.
Limitations
The study was conducted in mice, and results may not directly translate to humans.
Participant Demographics
Adult male BALB/c mice, 4-6 weeks old.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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