Anti-Biofilm and Quorum Sensing Inhibitory Activities of Carica papaya L. Peel Extract Against Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus

Abstract

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) continues to pose a major threat to global public health due to the increasing resistance of pathogenic bacteria to conventional antibiotics. This study evaluated the anti-biofilm and quorum sensing inhibitory activities of Carica papaya L. peel extract against Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus. An experimental research design was employed involving methanolic extraction, physicochemical analysis, phytochemical screening, and crystal violet biofilm assay. Papaya peel extract was prepared through maceration using 85% methanol. The extract was subjected to organoleptic evaluation, pH determination, solubility testing, and phytochemical screening for polyphenols and saponins. Results revealed that the extract contained polyphenols and saponins and exhibited acidic and polar characteristics. Crystal violet assay demonstrated a significant reduction in biofilm formation in both bacterial isolates treated with papaya peel extract compared to the negative control. Statistical analysis using one-way Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) revealed significant differences among treatment groups (p < 0.05). The findings suggest that Carica papaya peel extract possesses promising anti-biofilm and quorum sensing inhibitory properties and may serve as a potential natural alternative for combating antimicrobial resistance.