Abstract
Background: Subinhibitory concentrations of mupirocin can suppress flagellar formation in Pseudomonas aeruginosa. In this study, we evaluated the effect of mupirocin on biofilm formation in P. aeruginosa. Methods:P. aeruginosa PAO-1 (MIC, >1,024 µg/ml for mupirocin) was used. Viable bacteria adhering or forming biofilm on a Cell Desk were counted and observed by scanning electron microscopy. Results: With or without continuous exposure to 256 µg/ml of mupirocin, counts of adherent and/or biofilm-forming bacteria showed no difference until day 10. Whereas biofilm formation with glycocalyx was observed on day 6–10 without mupirocin, mupirocin reduced biofilm formation and glycocalyx production for 10 days. Conclusions: Subinhibitory concentrations of mupirocin can reduce biofilm formation in vitro in P. aeruginosa.