Antimicrobial resistance patterns of enteropathogens and probiotic potential of infant gut-derived lactic acid bacteria in Maroua (Far North Cameroon).

BACKGROUND: Gastrointestinal infections remain a major public health concern, particularly in regions where antibiotic misuse has accelerated antimicrobial resistance. Identifying safe alternatives including probiotics is therefore critical. This study aimed to evaluate the probiotic potential of lactic acid bacteria (LAB) isolated from the gut microbiota of infants under six months of age in Maroua, Cameroon. METHODOLOGY: We conducted a retrospective study of stool culture records from the Maroua Regional Hospital (from January 2020 to december 2024), followed by a cross-sectional laboratory study. Ten healthy infants provided stool samples, from which LAB were isolated on De Man, Rogosa and Sharpe (MRS) agar. Isolates were assessed for acid and bile salt tolerance, autoaggregation, and antimicrobial activity were tested using the agar well diffusion method. RESULTS: Among 563 records, confirmed gastrointestinal infections accounted for 5.68% [3.78–7.58%]. Bacterial pathogens represented 28.14% (Salmonella enterica, Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus spp., Yersinia enterocolitica), parasites 25.01% (Trichomonas intestinalis, amoeba cysts), and fungi 46.87%. Enteropathogens showed multidrug resistance to fluoroquinolones (54.65%), and cephalosporins (42.86%), with complete sensitivity to carbapenems. LAB isolates demonstrated strong probiotic potential: survival at pH 2–5, tolerance to bile salts (0.3–1%), autoaggregation (61–81% at 24 h), and coaggregation with pathogens (62–81%). They inhibited E. coli, Proteus mirabilis, Salmonella spp., and Enterobacter cloacae, particularly in acidic supernatants. Biochemical identification revealed Lactiplantibacillus plantarum, L. pentosus, Lacticaseibacillus casei, and L. paracasei. CONCLUSION: Infant-derived LAB strains exhibit promising probiotic properties and may serve as complementary strategies for preventing gastrointestinal infections. Further studies are needed to confirm their safety and clinical relevance.