Pak J Biol Sci. 2026 Jan;29(1):24-32. doi: 10.3923/pjbs.2026.24.32.
ABSTRACT
<b>Background and Objective:</b> The extensive use of antibiotics has created selective pressure leading to antimicrobial resistance, with biofilm formation serving as a major defense mechanism. Nearly 80% of infections involve biofilm-producing microorganisms that conventional antibiotics fail to eradicate. This study aimed to evaluate the antimicrobial and antibiofilm properties of ethanol extract from songga wood (<i>Strychnos lucida</i>) against <i>Bacillus</i> sp., <i>Salmonella typhi</i> and <i>Candida albicans</i>. <b>Materials and Methods:</b> Antimicrobial and antibiofilm activities of <i>S. lucida</i> ethanol extract were assessed using the microdilution assay at graded concentrations (0.0625-1%). Biofilm inhibition was examined during both intermediate and maturation phases. Statistical analysis was performed to determine significance (p<0.05). <b>Results:</b> At the highest tested concentration (1%), the extract demonstrated strong antimicrobial activity, inhibiting 83.89% of <i>Bacillus</i> sp., 80.03% of <i>S. typhi</i> and 82.43% of <i>C. albicans</i>. Pronounced antibiofilm activity was also observed, with inhibition rates of 75.36, 75.58 and 71.82% during the intermediate phase and 61.16, 61.76 and 61.14% during the maturation phase, respectively (p<0.05). <b>Conclusion:</b> <i>Strychnos lucida</i> ethanol extract exhibited significant antimicrobial and antibiofilm effects, indicating its potential as a natural candidate for developing alternative therapeutic agents. Further studies on its active compounds and mechanisms are warranted to support clinical applications.
PMID:41622957 | DOI:10.3923/pjbs.2026.24.32
