Abstracts

Effect of sub-lethal chlorine stress on the homologous stress adaptation, antibiotic resistance, and biofilm forming ability of Salmonella enterica

by Tomilola O Obe




Institution: Mississippi State University
Department:
Year: 2017
Keywords: Salmonella; chlorine; adaptation; rugose; biofilm
Posted: 02/01/2018
Record ID: 2154422
Full text PDF: http://sun.library.msstate.edu/ETD-db/theses/available/etd-03222017-134949/;


Abstract

The effect of exposure to sub-lethal chlorine stress on Salmonella enterica serotypes Typhimurium and Heidelberg was examined in this study. Both serotypes demonstrated an acquired tolerance to chlorine with the adapted cells growing in concentrations above the MIC. Chlorine induced a morphological change to the rugose variant in Salmonella. The biofilm formation of the adapted and control cells was tested on food-contact surfaces at room temperature and 37C. The chlorine-adapted rugose formed stronger biofilms (P < 0.05) when compared to smooth (adapted and control) on both surfaces tested and at both temperatures. The possibility of cross-adaptation to antibiotics and low pH was evaluated. Adapted rugose showed reduced susceptibility against some of the antibiotics tested. Chlorine does not aid in the survival of Salmonella enterica at low pH. Chlorine stress can select for tolerant Salmonella cells that attach strongly to food-contact surfaces and after some time may become less susceptible to antimicrobials. Advisors/Committee Members: Dr. Aaron S. Kiess (chair).