Multitarget inhibition of biofilm, virulence, and quorum sensing of Pseudomonas aeruginosa by FDA-approved natural bioactives.

Pseudomonas aeruginosa is an opportunistic pathogen linked to severe infections, food spoilage, and antimicrobial resistance, owing to its robust biofilm-forming ability and the secretion of degradative enzymes. This study evaluated 14 FDA-approved natural bioactives for their antibacterial, antibiofilm, and antivirulence properties. The minimum inhibitory concentration analysis demonstrated that epigallocatechin gallate, hydroquinone, kojic acid, and retinol were effective at 1024 μg/mL. Natural bioactives such as alpha-tocopherol, azelaic acid, hydroquinone, panthenol, and salicylic acid effectively inhibit biofilm formation and other virulence factors. Molecular docking experiments indicated their binding to quorum-sensing regulators, proteases, biofilm-associated proteins, iron acquisition receptors, and adhesion molecules. These findings suggest that FDA-approved natural bioactives are safe, multitarget antivirulence agents that can reduce P. aeruginosa pathogenicity and spoilage-related characteristics.