IIT Roorkee researchers find Thymol as potential tool to combat bacterial infections

The research team is led by Prof. Ranjana Pathania and includes Arsalan Hussain, Timsy Bhando, Ananth Casius, and Rinki Gupta. The team found that persister cells of A. baumannii alter their membrane properties and energy metabolism, increasing their antibiotic tolerance, as informed by IIT Roorkee.

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Subsequently, researchers explored the potential of safe, naturally derived compounds to counteract bacterial persistence.

As per the study, thymol, a plant-based compound commonly found in thyme, may help weaken the persisters. Preliminary findings indicate that thymol, in combination with meropenem, enhances the antibiotic’s activity, offering a potential approach for tackling persistent infections.

Prof. Ranjana Pathania, the lead researcher, pointed out that the ability of thymol to disrupt bacterial persistence and enhance the efficacy of existing antibiotics presents a promising avenue in addressing antimicrobial resistance.

“By targeting persister cells, we may be able to improve treatment outcomes for chronic and recurrent infections,” said Prof. Pathania.

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Additionally, it was also learned after more experiments that thymol works through multiple mechanisms to weaken persister cells. It disrupts bacterial energy production as well as damages the protective outer membrane, increasing the bacteria’s vulnerability.

Besides, Thymol also generates reactive oxygen species (ROS), which stress and weaken the bacteria, and inhibits bacterial efflux pumps, potentially enhancing the effectiveness of meropenem.

The study, however, maintains that additional research and clinical validation are required to assess thymol’s potential in real-world therapeutic applications.

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Highlighting the importance of the research, IIT Roorkee Director Prof. K.K. Pant said “Antimicrobial resistance is a critical global challenge. This study by IIT Roorkee researchers demonstrates how innovative approaches, including natural compounds, could contribute to overcoming persistent infections. It reflects our institute’s commitment to research that addresses pressing healthcare challenges.”

Notably, the findings of the research have been published in the Antimicrobial Agents and Chemotherapy Journal of the American Society for Microbiology, and the next phase will focus on refining the thymol-meropenem combination and evaluating its potential through further studies.