Inhibitory Effects of Oxysterlina 3, Satanin 1, and Curvicin Cecropins on the Growth and stx2 Gene Expression of Shiga Toxin-Producing Escherichia coli (STEC).

Shiga toxin-producing Escherichia coli (STEC) poses a significant health risk, with Stx1 and Stx2 as key virulence factors associated with hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS). Current STEC treatment relies on supportive care, avoiding antimicrobial therapy. This study evaluates the antibacterial activity of three cecropin peptides and their effect on the expression of the stx2 gene in STEC. Employing microdilution assays and RT-qPCR, all three cecropins demonstrated antibacterial efficacy, displaying MIC and MBC values of 12.5 µg/mL, and decreased gene expression levels following treatment. Notably, these cecropins not only inhibited STEC growth but also significantly reduced stx2 mRNA expression. These findings underscore the therapeutic potential of cecropins as an alternative treatment for STEC infections and suggest they may mitigate associated complications.