Resveratrol influences the pathogenesis of Aeromonas hydrophila by inhibiting production of aerolysin and biofilm

Abstract Aeromonas hydrophila is widely distributed in freshwater environments and aquatic products which can cause a variety of infectious diseases to aquatic, terrestrial species and human. However, the emergence of antibiotic resistant strains results in the treatment failure of antibiotics. Therefore, novel strategies need to be clarified. The pathogenesis of the bacterium is composed by the virulence factors, such as hemolytic toxins, biofilm and adhesions. Therefore, aerolysin and biofilm have been developed as targets identifying novel drugs against A. hydrophila infections. In the present study, resveratrol with little anti-A. hydrophila activity could decrease the pathogenesis of A. hydrophila by inhibiting the expression of aerolysin and biofilm formation at sub-inhibitory concentrations. Results of western-blot and qPCR assays demonstrated that RSV could decrease aerolysin and biofilm production by inhibiting aerolysin encoding gene and quorum sensing system. Furthermore, results of cell viability and experimental therapeutics assays indicated that RSV could provide a significant protection both in vitro and in vivo. Taken together, these findings provide a new approach in identifying drugs based on anti-virulence strategies. RSV is a promising candidate anti- A. hydrophila infections by decreasing the production of aerolysin and biofilm.